[Years ago...]

“Plate armour is an art my son. From the hands that craft it, to those that test it, to those that wear it, to those that clean it. All of these tasks, all of these rituals, there is a beauty there.”

You frown at Septon Briscoe, attempting to get your greaves into place with frustratedly unpracticed hands. It was the first time you had every donned a suit of armour, a gift from Lord Emmerst Earp for your thirteenth nameday. You throw your hands up in defeat as the thing limps from its place for the third time and you sit back, crossing your arms and pursed lips.

“Temper tantrums are unbecoming of a squire,” Briscoe offers and you give him a stern look that soon fades as you realize it.

“I am sorry Septon,” you say looking at your feet in shame.

The elder man laughs and crosses the room to you, kneeling before you and looking the straps and buckles over with cloudy eyes. His robes were often dirty, brown and muddy for the time he spent in the port town below giving sermon for the common people that lived there, it still frustrated you to see the Septon kneeling in hay and goat shite. For the most part you attempted to avoid his gaze but he catches you with a small smile, “May I?”

Perplexion fixes upon your face and you lean forward with a short uncertain nod. The Septon goes to work with deft hands, his words speaking to his actions, “In my youth I was squire to a famous Knight of the Vale. My father had gone about ensuring I had every advantage in my life. When I chose a life of Faith rather than the path of the Knight he was wroth but he did not understand that the Knight who had taken to my training had instilled that Faith upon my young mind,” he finishes with a buckle, tying it closely to your leg before starting the other, “He told me a story once while I learned to help him don his plate, that each piece represented an aspect of the Faith, and that each piece should be honored, sanctified, and cared for as the last would be. A full set, kept and maintained, honored and sanctified was the epitome of his Faith. As the iron, steel, maille, and leather surrounded, embraced, and protected him so did his Faith. A shield against his enemies that devotion made unpregnanable. Do you understand my meaning, my son?”

“I think so Septon,” you respond after a moment, watching as he finishes your greaves and waves for you to stand, taking the cuisses in his hands and beginning work upon them next.

“Then you understand why frustration, anger, and surrendering to one’s emotions does nothing to honor the Seven then? Patience is a virtue my son, not all boys are born with the innate ability to don plate armour by themselves the first time. Nor are all boys born with the ability to surround themselves in Faith. Doubt lingers like a plague, but it is when you are able to conquer this doubt, to find focus that they become the man they are destined to be. Thing of your donning of this armor as you expelling doubt from yourself, purging lingering thoughts as you care for it as you would your own mind. Honor each piece, no matter how small or large, with your Faith, and they will bless you with their silver shield.”

You nod along as Briscoe finishes his task and easily places the poleynes in place, he gives you direction to raise your arms and helps you into the maille shirt that covers the bulk of your torso and arms, he goes to task upon your breastplate.

“Tell me my son, does the Lord Emmerst take interest in your studies?”

Your lips do not go to speak, but you look to the side instead before speaking, you did not wish to speak ill of your sponsor, of the man that so graciously took a common boy as squire, who housed, fed, and cared for your family. Finally you speak, “He spars with me upon occasion.”

“But it is Ser Vardin, his Master-at-Arms, that takes upon the bulk of your learning,” the Septon says and you offer little response. He chuckles, patting your back, “My son there is much to this world you may never fully understand. But it is those things that you do that makes you exceptional. Ser Vardin is a man of the Faith, as we are, he has confessed to me that your skill with the sword and shield is unparalleled amongst the squires. The other boys become jealous, attempt to defeat you in groups and yet you stand resolute, never once backing down from their challenge. Even Lord Emmerst’s younger brother seethes with rage when he finds himself across from you. They curse at you, call you names, diminish your status and yet you never falter. Why is that?”

“Because…” you frown, not knowing the full answer just yet. Instead watching as Briscoe begins work upon your gauntlets, vambrace, and continues his way up your arms.

“Because you keep your emotions in check upon the field of battle,” Briscoe finishes for you, “Ever analyzing, ever ready, relying upon not only your skill but your Faith to protect you. That is where you are different from the rest my son. Take solace in your abilities my son, and honor the Seven that blessed you with such skill ready to be taken and molded,” the Septon finishes his task, rechecking every strap and buckle before picking up your helmet and handing it to you, “I see a boy blessed with greatness before me, and that blessing may someday lead you to places you never thought possible. But in all of this do not forget yourself nor what drives you.”

You lower the helmet upon your head, adjusting to the weight, awkwardly moving to test your reflexes and that it should not be too tight. You hide a small smile to the Septon’s words and as if he could see through your helmet he smiles back, placing his hands upon your shoulders.

“Remember your loyalties my son. To family, to Faith, to the Vale, and Lord.”

“I shall, I swear it,” you respond with a slight crack in your voice.

Septon Briscoe chuckles and pats your shoulders, “And remember, choir practice is tonight. Do your warm ups as we taught.”

“Yes Septon, I promise.”

---

[27th Month I, 288AC - Mid-Day]


“And may the Seven bless me with their shield upon this day,” you finish your silent prayer, eyes closed, hands folded together. You take a deep breath and stand to full length, Parwyn Waynwood standing next to you, your sallet under his armour. Lugging your new shield into place you inspect the seven pointed star painted upon it with an approving look, the silver paint of it it shone like a polished mirror. Parwyn sniffles, his nose still imperfect from Ser Vyell Vyvyan’s strike, the stitches upon his check were red and puffy and yet he stood there, defiance in his eyes. He refused to not be by your side, to not do his duty as your squire. A good lad.

The two of you emerge from the castle, the sun of the day warming your face where the cool breeze tossed your hair and tickled your face. The yard was fit to burst with squires of all ages huddled about the makeshift Tourney grounds. A partition of circular wood surround by a handful of seats, though most of the room was standing barring the box where Lord Belmore sat. He gives you a short look before standing and calling attention to himself with raised hands and the tolling of bells.

“Lords, Ladies, Knight, Squires, and people of this realm and those far abroad I welcome you to my home with open arms. Today we honor…”

“You are just as they say, Ser Landon,” you hear a voice in your ear, you turn slightly to regard the woman with raven hair as she stands next to you with crossed arms, “A dull brute of a man.”

Giving Lady Victaria a slight look she rolls her eyes and purses her lips.

“I could beg you for the better part of a year to not go through with this. That there were other ways to deal with my brother but you would never listen. The words would fall upon deaf ears. And meeting your brothers I can see why. You are a cold, dark man Ser Landon.”

“He struck my squire.”

“To give insult to you, where he could not find alternative avenue because he is too craven to strike you himself in plain view. He seeked such a rise from you, and you took the bait like a dog offered prime cut of meat.”

Dog, butcher, brute, traitor, turncloak…

“I can see why your brother’s loathe you Ser Landon,” Victaria says, “Seven bless you,” and with that she leaves off, pulling her cloaks to herself.

“It is with great honor and privilege I find myself able to announce the start of today’s festivities will begin with an exhibition between my own Ser Vyell Vyvyan, Captain of the Belmore Heavy Infantry and Ser Landon Graller, my Knight-Commander, the Knight of Whitestone Keep, and Guardian of the Faith!” Lord Belmore says in grand flourish, “Pay close attention men of all stations, this is how men of honor, Faith, and devotion partake in the art of war and single combat. Each man exemplifies what it is to be a True Knight, so squires take notice and give thought. Sers?”

You’re ushered into the ring by the crowd, finding yourself across from Ser Vyell, donned in red plate, lined with white fur, his surcoat bearing the crowned foxes of his arms and the seven pointed star of the Faith. In stark contrast you only wear your simple plate, unadorned barring your new shield and the cap of royal blue that Ser Cador Belmore had gifted you. You each approach, and kneel before Lord Belmore, swords stricken into the ground to honor him and his Household about him. He gives you leave to rise and the small crowd claps as you offer a hand to Ser Vyell. He gives you a look of reproach but takes it all the same, not wishing to be made a fool of before his liege.

The two of you leave off to your separate sides of the melee grounds, Parwyn hands you your helm, takes your cape, and you roll your neck adjusting to the old familiar weight of it all. Sword finds place upon your fingers and you take your stance, repeated whispered words upon lip, “May the Warrior bless me with strength, the Father with justice, the Mother her protection…”

“Good Sers may the Seven bless you, you may…” Lord Belmore’s voice trails building anticipation, Ser Vyell looks to his raised hand, bouncing back and forth with his greatsword upon his shoulder, where your eyes stay fixed upon him. Unyielding, unfaltering it is not the drop of Lord Belmore’s hand you see, nor his words that prompt you to action, it is Ser Vyell’s battlecry, sword raised over head as he streaks across the field towards you, the roar of the crowd that prompts you to action.

>Please roll 8d6 for Fighting(Long Blades).

Sorry for the late start, had to do some stuff before I could run.

Rolled 6, 4, 3, 1, 1, 4, 3, 4 = 26 (8d6)

>>1907616
How ya been mate?

Rolled 3, 6, 4, 3, 3, 3, 1, 2 = 25 (8d6)

>>1907616
Hey Dad, I hope we kick some ass

Rolled 1, 3, 4, 1, 1, 4, 3, 6 = 23 (8d6)

>>1907616

Rolled 3, 4, 6, 6, 5, 4, 2, 5 = 35 (8d6)

>>1907616

>>1907629
>>1907634
>>1907636
21,19,20

Surprisingly low first round for Landon.

>>1907636
>>1907637

Damn it.

>>1907642
Landon is plagued by his thoughts of his brothers.

>>1907669
Nah Victaria distracted us by being a bitch.

>>1907669
>>1907669

Our brothers gave us shit for being a stick in the mud for being too serious while they took everything as a joke, now that one of them got injured we are the one who didn’t care about anything or took them seriously. Excuse me if I care little to see them go.

Ser Vyell Vyvyan’s Attack I
DC: 19
Rolls: 27,23,24
>Success, Two Degrees.
>Damage: 8*2=16-11AR=5 Damage
>Ser Landon Grallner’s Health: 15-5=10

Ser Landon Grallner’s Attack I
DC: 11
Roll: 21,19,20
>Success, Three Degrees
>Damage: 5*3=15-9AR = 6 Damage
>Ser Vyell Vyvyan’s Health: 12-6=6

Ser Vyell is faster than you, his footsteps are quick and practiced as he charges across the field, rounding his greatsword about his head. You decide in this case the best course of action is to take the brunt of it upon your shield and retaliate after learning his step and he allows himself inside your guard fully. Though the thought is only half completed before the greatsword bores down upon your shield with its full strength. Vyell sneers at you through the gate of his helm and you can feel your shield being pushed down towards the dirt. Not only was he faster but he was stronger too, a surprising thing. He pushes forward, his sword scraping with a hiss off the new metal of your shield, the great sword passes by your face, and you wonder if he had meant to stab you in the eye with the maneuver. But rather he had meant to step further into your guard, typically a dangerous move but with both your shield and sword angled down he had advantage. He flips his sword back just before the guard reaches the cusp of your shield and reels back slightly only to pummel the side of your helmet with the pommel of the greatsword. Your head rings from the attack, and you can feel yourself lose a step and your balance to the side out of your typical stance and you sword drawing away from its place upon the top of your shield. Vision blurs for a moment while you reorient yourself upon bended knee.

The crowd roars to Ser Vyell’s opening attack as he turns his back to you, waving his outstretched arms to the crowd of Knights and squires assembled for the day’s event. Most of them were his men you realize as you stand and recover your balance. Ser Vyell finishes his gloating and turns to look at you again, raising his sword to his shoulder and again breaking into a sprint again and attempting to crack his sword upon the top of your shield again but this time mistakes your defensive posture. Your shield catches the blade at an upward angle, lofted high above your head and slanted to the left, you push into it with a step and brush his swing to the side causing Vyell to go with it, one arm holding onto the sword while the other attempts to keep him from landing in the dirt. Your sword lashes out perpendicular to his body and slams into his thigh, Vyell wore half-plate, allowing his legs to remain free so he may be quicker upon them, only he wore no maille skirt and only protected his knees and below with steel. The thigh was simply too open, the white furs and woollen chausse doing him little in matters of protection. He grunts with pain as you draw your sword back, allowing it to dig deeply into the lightly protected area, the tip of your sword finally finds purchase through the layered armour and you knick his leg just enough to cause him to flinch and fall into the frozen dirt and snow upon the ground. Vyell rolls with it and lands a few feet back from you, panting heavily a hand upon his cut leg and the other holding his greatsword upon the ground. You resume your defensive stance, the tip of your sword sparkling with the gleam of blood. The crowd oooes in response to first blood but the two of you know this is far from done, Ser Vyell would not be a man to stand down over a few droplets of blood. He stands and takes his own position far more defensive this time, his eyes placed upon your own.

>Please roll 8d6 for Fighting(Long Blades).

Rolled 4, 1, 1, 2, 5, 1, 4, 6 = 24 (8d6)

>>1907709

Rolled 1, 4, 1, 5, 3, 6, 4, 2 = 26 (8d6)

>>1907709
>8d6

Rolled 1, 2, 1, 3, 4, 3, 3, 4 = 21 (8d6)

>>1907709
for the seven

Rolled 4, 6, 6, 6, 1, 3, 1, 2 = 29 (8d6)

>>1907709

>>1907718
i shouldnt have rolled.

>>1907719
Our rolls aren't the greatest, but they should do fine, I hope

Oh well
We probably won cause we're a tank
With a years worth of training we could pribably 1v1 the mountain

>>1907712
>>1907714
>>1907716
21,22,17

>>1907728
Seeing those numbers makes me assume we kicked his ass in the second round

>>1907728
can't we reroll using blood of the andals or something?

>>1907734
Why? They are just about equal to our first round.

>>1907735
Blood of the Andals
>Upon selecting this benefit, choose one ability you have at rank 3 or greater. Whenever you test this ability, you may re-roll a single die. You must take the result of the second roll, even if it’s worse than the first. In addition, once per day, you may add +2 to the result of any one test.

Yes, you may, since, >>1907714 is the best roll of the three I will allow you to reroll for 1 of the 1s.

>Please roll 1d6 (Blood of the Andals). I will take the first roll.

Rolled 5 (1d6)

>>1907744
Can't we do this for every round of fighting? it doesn't have a stipulation like the rest of the ability...

>>1907746
Strictly speaking yes. But more often than not Landon steamrolls people and it doesn't come up. I typically keep the +2 bonus in the back of my mind if Landon is ever close to a degree of success and needs that final push but it has yet to come up. This is the first time it has had a valuable application. Also, I'm not going to do it for every single roll in a best of three situations unless I'm using each roll separately. Bo3 is already a flawed system, I'm not going to bog us down with crunch like that if it isn't necessary or useful and I need to limit the power of that ability in this case. If it does come up as useful I will absolutely offer it and I was thinking about it while writing this update.

So anyway, the new value is 24, a +2 Improvement.

>>1907763
Neato. Lets Gib this cunt

>>1907763
>>1907777
We could always boost it with the plus 2 for 4 dos

Ser Vyell Vyvyan’s Attack II
DC: 19
Rolls: 20,19,24
>Success, Two Degrees.
>Damage: 8*2=16-11AR=5 Damage-5 Injury Taken=0
>Ser Landon Grallner’s Health: 10-0=10
>Result: Ser Landon Grallner takes an Injury (⅕)

Ser Landon Grallner’s Attack I
DC: 11
Rolls: 21,24,17
>Success, Three Degrees
Blood of Andals Activated: 24+2=26
>Success, Four Degrees
>Damage: 5*4=20-9AR = 11 Damage
>Ser Vyell Vyvyan’s Health: 6-11=-5
>Result: Ser Vyell Vyvyan defeated.

The two of you circle each other now, taking small slow steps and feeling out the other. Vyell is quick to protect his bleeding leg, you notice the blood seeping into the furs he adorns himself with ruining the color of them likely. Again Ser Vyell is the first to strike, he takes a full step which you meet with your sword, parrying the vicious blow, but he is quick to round and you find yourself caught up in a dueling matching with the man. He presses forward, every step accompanied by a swing from his greatsword. In truth he is an incredibly practiced and formidable Knight upon the battlefield, it is abundantly clear why he is the Captain of the Heavy Infantry, at least by his prowess in battle. Your thoughts are short and interrupted as he launches into a fury of blows, at least two striking you fully on your side and again in the head rattling your senses into a cloudy daze. The warmth upon your temple, the blood that flowed as the Warrior took your hand in battle was interrupted and you find yourself begging for air, as if you had forgotten to breath. The hammer blows continue with your body merely going through the motions until you regain breath and clarity of eye.

His attack is briefly interrupted by your own defensive counter, allowing you a moment to ground yourself and ward off his continued swings with your shield arm rather than your sword. Though Vyell hardly allows your respite to last long instead bearing down upon your shield fully again and attempting to pull the same maneuver as before. You allow your shield to low but drawback your sword immediately and press it under his blade and pushing up as he attempts to push forward once more. The metallic clang of the hilts as they lock echoes in the yard, the crowd in total silence, your shield swings to the side causing him to take a step back and allow some distances between the two of you. Ser Vyell pushes towards you knowing he’s inside your guard fully with your shield to the side and your defenses relatively open.

He growls at you, hoping to press advantage but you can tell his stance is compromised, his injured leg begins to falter as you press forward yourself. He has overextended himself, your shield sweep causing him to misjudge his footing and he was instead relying on you for balance. Feeling his weight attempt to shift to rectify this you instead bounce him off with a step of your own, throwing his stance off to the side and him having to stumble forward and past you in an attempt to avoid you. Though this is hardly successful as the tip of your tower shield cracks down upon the small of his back and causing him to bend and holler in pain. Following the motion you turn on your heel to watch Vyell fall to the ground on all fours, his greatsword having fallen beside him. The side of your blade cracks onto the injured thigh, fully exposed in his compromised position. He groans and falls over to the side, gasping for breath and gripping the bloody area with both of his hands after ripping his helmet from his head. Your vision fades in and out for a moment, the brightness of the day turning to dusk and back to light again and again. You place your foot upon his hands and he curses at you, though you do not dig at him, instead placing your blade upon his exposed chin.

“I yield,” he grumbles out in labored breath, gasping with pain at the slight pain he feels from the pressuring of your boot, “For the love of the bloody Seven I yield, butcher, I yield!”

>Accept his yield, it was the honorable thing to do
>Decline, you could make an example of Ser Vyell here and keep this from happening again

>>1907818
>Accept his yield, it was the honorable thing to do

A lesson has been taught and the wrong has been righted.

>>1907818
>I am no butcher. Say my name properly instead of insulting my Ser Vyell. Then this duel will be over.

>>1907818
>"There is no 'Butcher' here. Yield to me using my given name sir."

>>1907818
I support this>>1907836

>>1907832
>>1907836
Also supporting

>>1907832
>>1907836
>>1907842
>>1907850

Popular enough option here.

>Please roll 3d6 for Persuasion (Intimidate).

>>1907818
>>Accept his yield, it was the honorable thing to do

“I will have your apology for your wrongdoing against my squire ser Vyell.”

Rolled 6, 6, 6 = 18 (3d6)

>>1907856

Rolled 1, 1, 2 = 4 (3d6)

>>1907856

Rolled 1, 2, 6 = 9 (3d6)

>>1907856

>>1907865
We´ve got the Stranger´s glare

>>1907865
He is gonna piss himself

>>1907865
>>1907867
>>1907868
18,4,9
>these fucking rolls

First off. Holy shit that perfect roll. Second off, how close we were to it being negated. Consider Vyell thoroughly intimidated.

File: IMG_20161012_212452.jpg (559 KB, 2048x2048)

559 KB JPG

>>1907865
Nice.

>>1907865
by the seven!

>>1907875
what are crit rules for this system?

>>1907865
We need to slice his cheeks with the tip of our sword as we do. For maximum humiliation and fear.

>>1907904
That's dishonorable. Fuck no.

>>1907897
There is a crit table, but it's for combat rolls and not intrigue(persuasion, cunning and deception)

>>1907904
absolutely not. we are not count Rugen.

>>1907904
no cheek slicing thank you, the stare will do nicely

Ser Landon Grallner’s Intimidate
DC: 8
Rolls: 18,4,9
>Success, Three Degrees.
Critical Success! +1 Degree
>Success, Four Degrees.

Dog, butcher, brute, traitor, turncloak…

The words are muffled in your mind, the crowd’s silence sounds like a dull ringing in your ears, the warmth upon your temple still crackles and burns as you lightly press upon his hands and cause Ser Vyell to wince in pain and agony, you lean forward, careful to not let your blade leave the tip of his chin, and speak, “There is no Butcher here, Ser Vyell Vyvyan. That man is long and dead. Knight-Commander, Ser Landon Grallner, those are my names, that is what you will address me by so long as you are under my command. I will accept your yield should you address me properly. Is this understood?”

Vyell looks at you with disdain, hatred even, you can see it in his eyes, though ever fleeting by how clouded your own vision had become. He spits on the ground, red with blood, and he looks upon your eyes, fully before breaking away from your stern glare and groaning in pain, “I yield, Ser Landon Grallner. I yield.”

You remove your foot, and he rolls over onto his back and inches away from you towards the box where Lord Belmore and his family sits. You can see the Belmores with various looks of opinions upon their faces, but you notice Lady Victaria standing from her seat and leaving, Lady Belissa Belmore being left alone with her mouth covered. Lord Belmore smiles widely and stands, beginning to applaud, the assembled masses following after. The steps you take towards the box are mildly staggered and you can feel disorientation beginning to set in as you kneel before him, sword placed stricken into the ground before you.

“Ser Landon Grallner is victorious in honorable and good combat!” Lord Belmore says with outstretched arms, “Truly he is worthy of the title Knight-Commander. The Seven have blessed you upon this day Ser.”

“Thank you my Lord,” you say and are waved to stand. A few squires begin to help Ser Vyell stand, and he limps away, you imagine the cut will heal in a few weeks and he will back to himself in less than a month. Hopefully the ordeal would be instill some humility into the man at the very least. Parwyn Waynwood is the first to you, take your helmet and shield as you stagger off the field to allow it to be cleaned and made ready for the squire’s melee.

“Ser Vyell has learned his lesson,” he say to Parwyn to gain his attention, “You will keep your tongue about him, yes?”

“Yes Ser, I promise,” Parwayn says with a lift in voice and a pep in his step, clearly being happy with the day’s results.

>Landon’s EXP Gained: 3, total 11
>Parwyn’s EXP Gained: 1, total 15

---

“Ser Landon I will have to ask you to stay still, please,” Maester Fallaways says as he stands behind you, examining in your head. Lord Belmore had called upon him when you had entered the box to take your seat next to him as was your honor. Looked like a half drunk fool he had said, though you took offense to both notions privately. He parts your hair and tsks, “I believe you have a mild head contusion Ser Landon.”

You grunt as he picks at the side of your head where the pommel had hit the first time.

“You are lucky to not have a concussion Ser, that is far more serious. The contusion will heal itself within a few days, perhaps a week. No more than a bruise. I would not suggest strain upon the eyes, reading or writing, or strenuous physical activity during this time.”

“Of course maester,” you respond, knowing half of that would be particularly easy a task, “Thank you.”

“Of course Ser,” he says with a deep bow over folded hands, “Now I must see to Ser Vyell’s cut before the squires take to bashing each others heads in. My Lord.”

Lord Belmore nods at him and places a hand upon your shoulder, fat fingers digging at your cloak, “You did well Ser Landon. I knew I was right to place my faith within you. You will make a fine Knight-Commander. And I doubt any man will think to question you now. I care little what this spat was over, Ser Vyell has always been a contentious man but his father served me with honor and loyalty in my youth. Ser Vyvyan will keep his place and I expect the two of you to corporately now, hm? ”

You frown slightly, “Of course my Lord.”

“Very good,” Lord Belmore says with a smile and turns to the field, “Twenty-eight lads. Four teams of seven, four rounds. Red vs blue, green vs yellow, their respective winners, and should any remain of the winning team a last man standing round amongst them. Victory shall grant them the privilege of knighthood by the man that exemplified such virtues before their very eyes. Truly an honor for a young lad.”

You nod your head, unsure of how you were made to agree to such a thing, though you supposed you never truly had. The first round of lads walks out upon the field and you get a good look at them for a moment, unlikely one nary over the age of six-and-ten. A few are larger than others though you’ve learnt that is hardly the way to judge a warrior. A few wear sigils of their Houses alongside their colored tabards. You notice an red Elesham, a blue Waxley, and a blue Templeton. Alongside the red team is a large boy, fat would be the best way to define him, his face squished under a kettle helmet, a morningstar in his hands, his arms the reverse of House Belmore, a slash of red upon them. Ser Bradic Belmore, Captain of the Belmore Cavalry stands and cheers, garnering an awkward wave from the boy.

Bradic sits and smiles widely, elbowing you, “That’s my boy down there. Favorite of ‘em all I swear it.”

Benedar scoffs, “My money would be on the next round Ser Bradic,” he says, “Brody Stone, or the Bastard of Strong Song, as he likes to fashion himself now will be the first to go if the boys are smart.”

“Sounds like a bet to me cousin,” Bradic says, flashing a few coins and placing them on the banister in front of the three of you.

Your Lord laughs, an oddly high pitched wheezy thing and he produces his own coin, “A bet then. Ser Landon?”

You clear your throat and sit back, “Gambling is a mortal vice my Lord. I do not partake in such things.”

“Ah, of course Ser Landon. Forgive me my vices, I pray every night for my release from them,” Benedar says and turns away to look at the field himself a slight grumble on his lips. He calls for his cup to be filled, mulled wine steams in his cup as it is poured, and he partakes in it fully before requesting another. You sip at your water as you watch the fieldmaster explain the rules to the boys once more and they take their places across from one another. Lord Belmore ruffles himself up and turns to you once more, “Ser Landon, I’ve want to speak to you again. Of matters pertaining to Lady Wylla Earp and House Back. Though…” he looks over your shoulder and towards Lady Belissa where she sits alone, “My dear cousin appears to be lonely and he cup unfilled. Perhaps the ever chivalrous Ser Landon could keep her company?”

>Speak to Lord Benedar Belmore
>Speak to Lady Belissa Belmore

>>1907993
>Speak to Lord Benedar Belmore
Impotant shit first, then waifu

>>1907993
>>Speak to Lady Belissa Belmore
We really need to scope her out since we're on a deadline. The house Back stuff can wait

>>1907993
>Speak to Lady Belissa Belmore

Got to learn more about her to make an informed decision

>>1907993
>Speak to Lady Belissa Belmore

>>1907993
>Speak to Lady Belissa Belmore

>>1907993
>>Speak to Lord Benedar Belmore

Pretty sure whatever chance we had with Victaria is dead.

>>1908027
>Get offered Belissa Belmore
>Wants Victaria Trashcan
If you're gonna argue against the belmore, at least be pitching Lady Waynwood

>>1908037
I didnt. Just an observation.

The page behind you stands at attention as you go to stand in awkward silence and pick a cup from his platter in your free hand. Your Lord smiles as you turn and shuffle towards Lady Belissa Belmore. You knew so very little about the girl, other than that she knew the marriage offer was upon the table. A part of you thought very little of it in truth, that what did it matter the sort of woman she was? Ambition perhaps clouded your judgment or perhaps it was the part of you that still lingered elsewhere. That she was a good woman was unlikely without question, but… You did not know why you crossed the room towards her, inclining your head slightly when you reach her, and offering her the filled cup.

“My lady, may I sit?” you ask.

She smiles pleasantly at you, though her eyes avert not soon after taking the cup, “You may good Ser.”

The movement to sit is, of course, awkward for you in your plate, and you find yourself uncomfortably close to Lady Belissa who mistakes the placement and wraps her arms within yours causing you to freeze up slightly. She is a pretty woman you admit to yourself from the corner of your eyes, her freckles aren’t the same though, less and lighter. And her hair is auburn and neatly braided while hers was a mess of fiery curls… You stop the comparison quickly after realizing what you are doing and sigh, allowing yourself to find more comfort, if only somewhat.

“Lord Belmore, my cousin. Well… Second-cousin. Speaks particularly well of you Ser Landon. Loyal and dedicated man, who you would make a good husband. As does Lady Sara, and my brother Bryen. Though Lady Victaria and Ser Vyell would likely speak to the opposite now, no doubt my other suitor will be fit with jealousy the moment he sees you here. But I will admit to hardly knowing the man my cousin seeks to marry me to.”

You sit in silence a moment longer, allowing the melee to begin with a drop of Lord Belmore’s arm and the crowds of lads to crash into each other before you speak again, only half paying attention. The Elesham boy seems to be the smartest, taking his time to get into the thick of it, picking his opponents cautiously, he bears his shield and sword not unlike yourself, remaining in a defensive posture until he needs to attack, which is typically a quick thing to ward off his opponent, a pale boy without any markings barring the blue tabard. Brody Stone however is quickly ganged up upon not unlikely Lord Belmore predicted, two on one, the Waxley boy and another. Surprisingly though he does not back down, standing his ground and waiting for them to come to him. The first attempts to probe his defense only to learn that there is none waiting for him, rather it was offense. The bastard’s morningstar crushes the boy’s side and he falls to the ground gasping for air.

>>1907993
>>Speak to Lord Benedar Belmore

“I… Likewise find myself at a disadvantage my Lady,” you respond.

She giggles though is close to stifle it, “I am sorry Ser, I do not mean to laugh at you.”

You frown and she giggles again, attempting to stifle it again though fails.

“Please I beg you forgiveness. You are just… I’m unsure of it in truth, Ser,” she pauses, wincing when she watches a boy get pummeled with a backhanded strike from another, “Please Ser Landon, I wish to know you, and I am as open a book as you could find.”

>You may ask Lady Belissa Belmore 3 questions to be decided on by the group. We will vote if necessary.

>>1908080
I guess the obivious question would be what her interests are, what she is good at and so on.

>>1908080
What do you make of this whole situation?

>>1908080
Just to be Landon-autist
>"Should I marry you, my lady? What are your thoughts"

>>1908080
What does she think of This place? What are her interests and what is she good at?

Huh, didn't expect such a lack of response.

Well we can go with everything here, pretty easy questions. Only one that people might disagree with is >>1908115. So are we fine with asking that?

>>1908144
I think for this one, its not a lack of interest so much as it's a super important interaction that folks don't wanna mess up.

>>1908080
Could also lay our cards on the table and tell her like it is.

Landon will most likely spend more time away fighting and praying than taking care of him, at least in the months/years to come until the Moon Swallow are dealt with and the Earp plot is foiled. Could she handle the loneliness as Whitestone isn't a place with much distraction or comfort and for the sight of blood and other bodily harm as our soldiers will likely face grievous injuries in their duty.

Knowing that not much beside grief and heartache awaits her in our domain, we do not care much the luxuries that can be had at Strongsong, should we keep this courtship going or should we part in friendly terms?

>>1908150
>than taking care of him
And by him I meant Lyn Corbray and not her obviously....Oh well.

>>1908144
We are kinda grasping at straws here. Landon knows fuck all about her and in general not great with women. Additionally we players have nothing ooc to lead our questions. Then there's the whole oh god a girl don't fuck this up! aspect.
Also ten bucks says brody stone is ours.

>>1908080
>What is your favourite / least favourite pass time?
>What do you aspire to in life? / What are your dreams?
>If this dream / aspiration couldn't be realised for whatever reason, what would you do?

These are the broad strokes, not direct questions. Please make them less autistic.

They ask her general interests + her overall life ambition. Plus importantly, how she would react if she couldn't do this - like if she couldn't have kids.

>>1908144
This is why you should have a few examples for people to build off of, straight write-ins always have this kind of response from my experience. I know you've done this a lot with Brynden, but Landon is a new animal who we're just starting to learn about, and plus this is anons interacting with a pretty girl who's not putting it all out there. Any subtlety should be expected to go out the window.

>>1908183
I think it is sweet that Father overestimate us so much.

>>1908199
he's got his heart in the right place

>>1908080
>>1908166
>this

I'm not sure Landon caught it, but she mentioned that there's another suitor. I can't remember Ser Warrior mentioning that fact before, so a question that inquires about our adversary could be beneficial as well.

>>1908248
Seems pretty clear the other suitor is Vyell, I wouldn't care to waste a question on that chump

>>1908255
looking back on last thread, and the implication in this one, I'll agree with you, Vyell seems the most likely candidate.

So I guess if Warrior is cool with adding his own Landon fluff to these >>1908166 then I'm cool with asking them.

I guess I would hope that there's some scripture laced into either Landon's questions or in his internal monologue. Given his limited experience with women, I would think he would rely heavily on passages of the Maiden and Mother for guidance on whether or not she seems suitable.

>>1908183
>Any subtlety should be expected to go out the window.
>>1908115
>>1908159
>>1908280
Should we ask her if she wishes to copulate?

>>1908297
Copulating is part and parcel with marriage, anon. The Seven do not smile on those who shirk their marital duties

“I erm…” you frown again, somewhat caught off guard by her openness and approach to the situation. She didn’t know you, you couldn’t blame her for not knowing you were a private man by nature, that social situations were not your particular wheelhouse.

“I enjoying read,” she says without prompting, “The libraries here hardly have a book or scroll I haven’t read. Maester Fallaways occasionally gets new books from Oldtown and lets me read them. Do you have a library Ser?”

“Whitestone Keep has a library, the former Lord kept it,” you respond with small thought, “I admit to not having visited it much nor its upkeep without a Maester.”

“Oh? Well that is a shame Ser,” she says, “You can learn so much from books, history, knowledge, poetry, song… I’m partial to astronomy myself. The twelve houses of the sky. Constellations, how to read the movements of the stars and what they tell us. Maester Fallaways has been very helpful in my understanding, as has the observatory here in Strong Song. A girl should have her interests my mother use to tell me, with four… Three brothers I had to stand out.”

In truth, the whole conversation was lost upon you, the only star you knew was the one that pointed to true north. And that is only because Marston had made it a point to teach you it. Instead you watch as the melee descends into a small knockout fight. The Elesham boy and Brody Stone have managed to out last the rest of their team and are down to a pair of boys from the opposing team. Brody is bleeding from his mouth, having lost his helmet at some point, but it hardly seems to keep him from beating on the other boys with that morningstar.

“Otherwise, I suppose I take joy in those things all women should love. I sew, I dance, I gossip,” she giggles slightly, patting your arm to gain your attention full, “What do you enjoy Ser Landon?”

“My Faith,” you respond simply, “And… My dog?”

“Oh my kitty would hate him,” she says with a laugh, “And a man of the Faith is always a good man, I respect that Ser. What else?”

You think, what on earth does a woman want to hear in this situation that was appropriate? What lessoned had you learnt in life to prepare you for such things? Those few verses that you could recall for the Mother and the Maiden, of what a good and dutiful woman of the Faith should be. They weren’t something you ever commit to memory. The words of your father? Muddled and forgotten by the more recent memories of him. Your head hurts, not for the bruise that grew upon it, but for want of question.

“Well you like to fight,” she says with a small voice, “Suppose that is important. Ser Vyell learned that the hard way but we all know that’s why Lord Belmore values you so highly. I am told you are a good and honorable Knight but I will admit the notions of war and combat only scare me and at times make me sick. I am loathe to see anyone hurt, I worry for the boys even now.”

Brody Stone had just gotten done pummeling a child with his morningstar in the gut as she finishes saying this.

She turns her head and grimaces and you find it… Strange. She hadn’t ever done that, she looked at the atrocities of the world, of what was necessary and knew them. She looked at the blood upon your hands and washed it away… Seven stop it Landon. Stop comparing them.

“What do you think of this all my Lady?” you ask.

“Of the marriage? Or the offer of such you mean? Or this show my cousin likes to put on?”

“Erm… All?”

She giggles to herself again, “I love Strong Song, Ser. It is my home, it has everything I could ever desire and then more. It would be hard to leave, though I understand Whitestone Keep is a lovely castle.”

In truth, it wasn’t, not anymore, the ravages of war and time left uncared for had left it a shell of its former self. It could not even be truly called the Whitestone anymore as you had been told before.

“As for the marriage? I suppose it is good? You are my cousin’s bannerman, and he wishes to bring you into our family. If I am the means to that end then I am glad for it.”

“You do not care to be used?” you ask rather quickly and regretting it almost a moment later, “I mean… Do you not aspire to more?”

“I aspire to have a good husband whom I love, am loved back by, and can bear children for Ser Landon,” she says with a laugh, “I am but a lowly cousin of my cousin’s line, I could not hope for much more of a better match than yourself or perhaps a third son. Love is something I can only hope for, but a good husband I find more attainable.”

You almost feel an undercutting of insult there, not from her words but from your Lord’s assumptions. She was an honest girl at least. You watch as Elesham and the bastard take down their last adversary. Leaving them alone as the sole victors for the red side and of the round. Brody Stone is loud and boisterous in his victory. While Elesham is quiet and only waves to the lower seats once before leaving the field. Ser Bradic is up in full applause and Lord Belmore looks peeved by the result.

Something niggles at the back of your mind, just doesn’t sit right with you, she seemed… Naive almost, of your status, of your home, your history. Of what she could expect if or when she came to the Whitestone. You turn to her and place a hand upon hers, causing her to jump with a start but smile at you all the same, they had the same eyes you realize for the first time. That bright sparkling blue, she looked at you the same way she once had. In those quiet nights by the rivers of the Riverlands…

“My Lady I… I am a blunt and honest man. I can not lie to you, to tell you that things in Whitestone Keep are easy or are without conflict. The mountain clans grow bold upon my lands, your nephew lost his life there. The Whitestone has been without warmth for a very long time now, and there is little to find there but grief and bloodshed of late and there are little in the way of comforts as you would find in Strong Song to serve as distraction. I am not a man who shies from these things, and I fear you would find yourself in fear of what surrounds you of… Your husband even. So I must ask you, honestly, is this what you want? Do you think you could do this? Should we marry?”

She tilts her head to the side, giving you an odd look, and the illusion of another is lost, you can see the quiver upon her lower lip as she goes to speak, “That is not a question I can answer, Ser. I believe you would be a good and true husband. Your concern for my sensibilities and your honesty shows me that. I cannot say what you should or should not do though, it is simply not my place. I am sorry.”

You nod and remove your hand, “I am sorry to have asked,” you say.

She smiles in response, hardly a word otherwise. You speak to her a moment longer of simpler things. Apparently her hand had been rejected by a Knight of House Waynwood of late, Donnell Waynwood you are made to understand. Lady Anya Waynwood was rather curt in her rejection, despite her son having actively courted her the past six months. She feared she had something to the Lady Anya to cause her to dislike herself, but Lord Belmore was quick to place the blame on the woman’s joyless nature. You could not speak to the matter yourself, and are thankful when an impatient tap upon your shoulder causes you to turn and see Lady Victaria Vyvyan standing over you, arms crossed and her lip upturned.

“You are in my seat Ser.”

You go to stand, carefully removing Belissa’s arm from your own, “Apologies my Lady,” you say to her with a short nod before turning to Belissa, “Thank you for your time my Lady. However brief, it was… Enjoyable.”

She giggles to herself again, find humor in your words, “You are enjoyable yourself Ser Landon. I look forward to our dance tomorrow.”

Victaria flashes you a look of dislike, one you are well accustomed to, as you shuffle by and to your seat again by Lord Belmore.

“Your thoughts of my dear cousin Ser Grallner?”

“She is a lovely Lady, my Lord,” you say quickly, attempting to rid yourself of the conversation as quickly as possible.

Ser Bradic elbows at your side again, “Told you my boy was a winner, I told you I did,” he says with a smile, “Sister’s one too. She’s the real prize of the five of us. Branson thinks he has it all down in Grimarbour, but Bryen and myself know it. She’d be a good wife Ser, I know it. And if Bryen and myself are any indication she’ll be as fertile as any field,” he laughs loudly.

You give him an expressionless nod and turn to the field again, watching the yellow and green teams enter. Unsurprisingly you do not know many of these colors or coats, only being able to pick out one you hadn’t seen in quite some time. That of House Frey, you were surprised to see them here at all. Like weaselly little weeds the lot of them.

“So Ser Grallner, we’ve business to speak of then, hm?” Lord Belmore starts, having his cup refilled and taking a full gulp of it before continuing, “Your steward happens to be a shrewd businessman, I will admit to some jealousy regarding his knowledge of coin, trade and silver. It is a surprise he languishes in Whitestone Keep so unappreciated. Do you wish to hear the offers we have come to? I am sure he will frame them his own way, but I will offer you an honest account of this morning’s meeting. Or perhaps you find yourself more interested in matters regarding your ward’s capture. House Back.”

What would you like to speak with Lord Benedar Belmore about?
>House Back and Lady Wylla Earp
>The Silver trade between your two Houses

>>1908389
>House Back and Lady Wylla Earp

>>1908387
>House Back and Lady Wylla Earp

>>1908389
>>House Back and Lady Wylla Earp
Man that conversation was awkward, she is cute though I have to admit.

Landon needs a goddamn hobby and he needs to get over that girl.

>>1908389
>House Back and Lady Wylla Earp

If it a choice between matters of coin and matters that will likely become military in nature, you know which one I would speak of first my lord.

>>1908389
>House Back and Lady Wylla Earp

>>1908389
>House Back and Lady Wylla Earp

>>1908389
>>House Back and Lady Wylla Earp
She's not quite Sansa dumb, but she's only a few bricks short.

>>1908409
Waiting fighting, praying, and petting your dog aren't hobbies?

Shit. Landon does need hobbies. What sort of hobbies would he even have?

>>1908453
Hunting? For moon swallows?

>>1908453
Horse riding and singing?

>>1908453

Beat poetry.

>>1908453
Singing is always a good one, when we learn how to read poetry and war books would be interesting.

When the moon swallows aren't so bad hunting with our best doggo for pheasant and the like

>>1908453

We should pickup dog breeding, hunting and hawking if we have the chance. Once we know how to read we could try singing. Simple hobbies suit Landon the best.
We might need to be a little more affluent if we are ro afford have these

We were a singer right?
When we become literate we could pick up poetry
Maybe become a type of homer figure for the faith if we get good enough

The greens and yellows descend it chaos just as quickly as the red and blues did. The boys have no organization or structure amongst their ranks. No born leader among them, just all boys trying impress their liegelord. Or perhaps yourself. There is another yellow who is fairly impressive with his spear, keeping his distance from the bulk of the green lads, but you watch as he gets cornered and is hardly able to defend himself from the three of them. You look about quietly and notice that Ser Bryen and Lady Sara are nowhere to be seen, your Knight, Ser Michel sits amongst the rabble and commonfolk, cutting with what looks like another Hedge Knight and pointing up towards the box where you sit.

Lord Belmore makes himself comfortable again and rolls his head to the side, a rather tired look upon his eyes, “Appearances,” he mutters, its meaning lost upon you.

“Let us speak of House Back,” you say, with little consideration, between matters of coin and war you were far more comfortable with the latter. And it was true, Maffew would frame it differently, in such a way that would understood and did not get a headache from it.”

“Hm, very well then,” Lord Belmore says and snaps his fingers, Captain Ultred Galton appears from the doorway to the box and sits upon Lord Belmore’s right side, where you the left, “Tell me Ser Landon do you know anything about House Back?”

“Not much more than what I have been told in the past,” you say, “That they had remained loyal to the Targaryens during the Rebellion. That their lands are poor. That their home is called Crow’s Barrens.”

“The first is the most important,” he says, “Loyalist remain an ever present problem within the Vale. While some, such as House Grafton have managed to regain our Lord’s trust, others such as House Back have continued to support the dragons. Not to say openly, but behind closed doors. Lord Farley Back is elderly man now, older than myself even. He was the uncle of the former Lord, one that was stamped out quickly during the Rebellion. He swore himself to the Arryns, and made good on his word and was given Lordship of Crow’s Barrens. We resumed our previous trade, their goose feathers for coin and that was the end of it. I believe Lord Farley and Lord Emmerst had a business deal once and I assume a marriage in the works.”

“Between Wylla and his son?”

He nods, “At the time it was a poor match. But Lord Farley, from his travels abroad as a sellsword, had amassed a large wealth and offered your former ever greedy Lord a bride price for his only daughter. When things happened as they did, and she fell to you, the deal was off. Now most men would take the loss and leave it, but not Lord Farley. He saw opportunity, to take the girl from a man without the ability to take her back, or even the knowledge of where she had gone. From there he would build and rally men to his cause for the dragon’s return,” Captain Ultred scoffs and Lord Belmore gives him a look before turning to you fully, “What Lord Back has done goes against all oaths of fealty he swore to Lord Arryn. He broke the King’s Peace when he sabotaged your House, inciting betrayal and riot amongst the Whitestone, and as your liegelord I take offense to such actions.”

A sharp cry of pain draws all of your attention to the field and you see a boy in green rolling around holding his arm to his chest, it bent in unnatural ways, incredibly likely it was broken or worse. The Frey child stands over him, a hammer he had scavenged from the field in his hands. He goes back into the thick of it and you lose sight of him.

“So what is to be done my Lord?” you ask uncertain.

“We kill ‘em,” Galton says with a chuckle, “The Black Hand Company is already sailing out Greatgorge, loop round and blockade ‘em. Ain’t no help gettin’ in, ain’t nobody gettin’ out. We gonna get that girl.”

“Not yet we don’t,” Lord Belmore cautions, “I will write to Nestor Royce, he will likely forward this to Lord Yohns Royce as matters of war concern him more than the High Steward. It would be my preference to simply speak with them and have the girl returned with no issue, but it is my understanding of loyalist uprisings about Westeros that it is very unlikely that that will be an option upon our table.”

You give them both an astonished look, “We are to go to war?”

“They leave us little recourse Ser Grallner,” Lord Belmore says, “Ser Armen Tollett needs to make his claim soon should he wish to be amongst those in contention to inherit Grey Glen.”

“Soon?”

“Soon, Ser Grallner, do not worry over it, a term in passing,” Belmore says waving it off, “Now, I understand the girl is your ward and you have domain over her. Perhaps I had been too forward when I stated that Ser Armen would be marrying her, as opposed to asking your opinion on the matter Ser Grallner...

You have shown yourself to be a man of greater counsel than I had expected of you, you opinions of my son’s marriage prospects and taking of a loan by the Bank of Bays has shown me as much. However, you do understand that the coin indebted to the girl is far beyond your capacities to pay. So I will rephrase my original statement. Ser Armen Tollett wishes to marry Lady Wylla Earp, in exchange for a dowry he will be willing to pay you one thousand dragons as a bride price. Her debts become his, or mine rather, you save yourself the trouble of finding the girl a match, and no longer have to look at her bitter little face in Whitestone Keep. All the while I am happier for it.”

Your eyes remain affixed upon the field as Lord Belmore speaks, watching the boys finish up this round, The Frey boy and two others of the yellows remain as the victors, giving them a slight edge against the reds from the first round. Both of those boys wear coats you are unfamiliar with, perhaps Riverlanders? But why would Freys be here with their banners unless they had come in force for whatever purpose. You supposed the machinations of that House were far beyond your understanding and you turn to Lord Belmore to address his offer, “That is all?”

“Well not all,” he says, “You will need to help them invade Crow’s Barrens, kill the loyalist turncloaks, and hand the girl over to him, personally. But you are man able and ready to kill those still loyal to the dragons are you not? This should be an easy task for you, Ser Grallner.”

This seemed… Easy you think. This was a deal, daggers upon backs and all that, but one that was more suited to your concerns and abilities. When Jeyne Stone had spat insult and taunted you with the name of your enemy you did not think it was so simple a thing as to invade and retake the girl. You supposed they were right, those still loyal to the dragon were men that wished this upon themselves, and sabotage was grounds for war but… Easy. It felt easy.

“But if the girl is not there, or you were lying, or she dies,” Ultred says in your silence, “We come after you. The Black Hand Company are private contractors Ser Grallner, and we work for the Bank of Bays. Now we know you made all nice with Nararo Aros, but don’t think for a damn second that we won’t come after you for the whole her debts if this goes sideways. You got that Knight-Commander?”

In exchange for Lady Wylla Earp and helping the Black Hand Company invade Crow’s Barrens to retake her, you will be given one thousand dragons (5 Wealth) and have the girl off your hands. Do you accept the deal?
>Yay
>Nay
>Something else?

>If you wish it, you may ask Lord Benedar Belmore and Captain Ultred Galton 3 questions regarding House Back and this plan. We will do votes as necessary.

>>1908675
>Yay
I don't think Landon has any plans for the girl, this is one less problem to deal with.

>>1908675
>Yay

>>1908675
>What if things were not as they seem? I a not a clever man by any stretch, but Jeyne Stone gave up those who claimed to back her incredibly quickly. Too quickly, she never stopped trying to kill my father, why would she give me a name when she knows I would take it to you?

>What if she commits suicide or the Backs kill her out of spite? I would not put it past them to do so if things seem lost. The most vicious men are those backed into a corner, and turning a victory into ashes would be well within in their means and desires. Much as I am loath to resort to it, the safest means of pulling the girl out would be like how she left my keep Unknown and in darkness.

>What exactly does her debt amount too?

>>1908675
>Yay

>>1908688
>>1908689
>>1908720
Can we ask questions first? Like This could Easily be a ploy.

>>1908737
Sure

>>1908705
Supporting these questions before we vote.

>>1908705
These aren't really Landon-y questions, the first could pass but the second is pretty unlike him. Also, you've already been told what the debt amounts to. It is a lot. Don't know why that would matter though.

Anyone else have any questions or are we just fine with this?

>>1908762
The first one is a must.

Maybe ask how soon soon is?

>>1908762
I like the first question, and would keeping the first section of the second question feel more Landon-esque? Seeing how they stand on drastic actions by House Back could be beneficial and I could see Landon having some experience with that sort of situation before.

>>1908675
>Ser Armen Tollett wishes to marry Lady Wylla Earp
Won't this confer an inheritable claim on our lands to Tollett's children? And we don't have the best relationship with them.

What I don't understand is, what does Belmore get out of taking on her debt? Does he gain the House Back lands after we wipe them out for 'disloyalty'? Or levarge over Tollett?

>>1908705
>>1908762
Here's a couple, rephrasing the 2nd question, tying into the 1st:
What if the others knew of the deal and are working around it? Didn't we just purge a bunch of traitors that had a good amount of access, so they might still have or had spies?

Is there anyone else who would marry Lady Wylla Earp? Is she worthy of any good spouses?
I'm not sure how much we like Lady Wylla Earp or if she was a conspirator herself.

>>1908775
I think that's the plan, he wants a part of territory in the deal but can't afford all of it, so he's leveraging it into a win-win.

>>1908453
dog breeding, hunting, riding, making small talentless wood carvings, singing

he could try his hand at dance.

>>1908775
He's said it before. He wants a man loyal to him, Armen Tollett, to have a claim on Grey Glen. As Lord Uthor Tollett doesn't have a male heir, the inheritance of Grey Glen falls to his daughter, Lady Alyssa Tollett who is married to Lord Bordain.

Belmore wants to keep Grey Glen out of Bordain's hands and to turn them from their liege, Lord Yohns Royce to himself by placing Armen as Lord when Uthor dies. By taking on the debts he assures Armen's loyalty. Anything coming from beating the hell out of House Back is just grave as far as he's concerned. He'll just hand it out to people he's courting favor with or want loyal to him.

>>1908771
>>1908773
First question is fine.
Keeping the first part of the second question is acceptable.
>>1908790
>What if the others knew of the deal and are working around it? Didn't we just purge a bunch of traitors that had a good amount of access, so they might still have or had spies?

I'm not really sure what you're asking here. Clarify, please.

>Is there anyone else who would marry Lady Wylla Earp? Is she worthy of any good spouses?
I'll answer this OOC. Would you want to marry a woman with 9000 dragons of debt, a debt that will grow the moment she is of an age? Landon might at best be able to shaft her off on someone else for a bride price. Belmore is counting on Landon seeing this and even offering money to take her off his hands.

>>1908675
what forces does the Hand have in this?

In truth I dislike having Tollet as a neighbor, is there someone else suitable for the girl?

They cannot be married and consumate it for some time, the Backs or tollets either one. either marriage faces anullment. Can we not use that to force our pace?

>>1908840
thats... a good point.

lord belmore may be a snake, but he is crafty like a fox.

I say we agree

>>1908675
>>Yay
let's agree and move on

>>1908675
>>1908705
>>1908840
>I'm not really sure what you're asking here. Clarify, please.
What if they know of Belmore's deals with Earp and are trying to turn it into a trap of sorts? Or they simply know that Earp is valuable enough as a hostage to deter an invasion?

>>1908841
>>1908845
Yeah, we're going to either need to spend our loan on this, or get another rich spouse for Lady Wylla Earp on this. Best we do it with someone who's already wealthy and willing.

>>1908855
wealthy my ass. theres more going on.

the girl owns the estate across the sea, and a 9000 dragon debt.

Aros is already willing to forgive the debt for the estate so thats a wash.

lord benedar fucks over bordain, and makes money in the process.

whats tollets stake in this? why armen tollet?

something isnt right here but im too tired to connect the dots.

>>1908863
I would guess that Tollett wants lands and title in Grey Glen instead of being a member of a mercenary company. If he's ambitious I would guess that marrying into a claim on Whitestone Keep is also a plus. My two cents anyway.

>>1908821
Hmm, interesting plan.

What about the inheritable claim on our lands?

>>1908863
>something isnt right here but im too tired to connect the dots.
"In the Game of Thrones, you either win or you die." I'm not too familiar with deadly court intrigue, but it seems to be something like that.

>>1908886
Another thing is we did gain Earp's lands and ward over Wylla by betraying Earp, so he might want to try washing his hands off of it sooner. Well, Lord Benedar Belmore might not give a shit about that but still.

>>1908891
Doesn't Lord Benedar plan for us to marry into his family anyways, to render that part moot?

>>1908907
No, someone is getting the shaft here. I would prefer it to be Bordain and Back.

If the girl dies who owns the estate, us?

If so then there is no reason not to say
>yay

>>1908705
>What if things were not as they seem? I a not a clever man by any stretch, but Jeyne Stone gave up those who claimed to back her incredibly quickly. Too quickly, she never stopped trying to kill my father, why would she give me a name when she knows I would take it to you?

"Things are never as they seem Ser Grallner," Belmore responds, "But it is well known that Jeyne Stone was the bastard daughter of House Back. But not the daughter of Lord Farley, she was the daughter of the man that came before him, as was her brother. Perhaps she had finally gotten tired of being used by men above her and had become embittered by her half-uncles abuse."

"But she said it was her father that was behind this?"

"And saboteurs lie Ser Grallner. Surely the woman would know her father was dead and assume you did not. To throw your scent off the trail. She did a poor job of it though."

"But... She should never have stopped if she thought herself a dead woman already... I... I don't understand. It makes no sense. She could have killed my father regardless and not given anything up but she didn't."

Lord Belmore merely shrugs, "And what of that matters to you? This woman was a whore that used her cunt and mouth to trick your household into betraying you. What whores do is save themselves, perhaps she thought she could save herself by giving up Lord Farley. I've little doubt she would wish to see the girl dead after what Lord Emmerst ordered done to her brother. She wished to sow the seeds of chaos here Ser Grallner, no more, no less, so that all that had wronged her died. I simply saw through her ruse."

This hardly does anything to assuage your concerns.

>What if she commits suicide or the Backs kill her out of spite? I would not put it past them to do so if things seem lost.

"The girl is like as much a coward as her father. A few months under siege in Crow's Barrens and she will be driven to madness. Her captors have likely made her promises, have told her she'd be safe from the man that killed her father. But when you appear she will know they have lied and would sooner come back to your relative safety rather than hide with dead men."

"And the Backs? Her father was the sort to hold a knife to man's throat to save his own skin. I do not doubt this of men so willing to break the King's Peace."

"If they do so, they know they are lost. Lord Arryn will allow us to bring the full weight of the Vale upon them and scrub them from these lands and the annuls of history. The girl is too valuable to threaten death of."

>>1908855
>What if they know of Belmore's deals with Earp and are trying to turn it into a trap of sorts?

"How would they? I do not doubt they have spies everywhere but I have not spoken of this to anyone besides yourself, Captain Ultred, Ser Armen, and Lord Nararo Aros. Often behind closed doors or crowded loud places such as this. If they suspect anything it will be too late."

>Or they simply know that Earp is valuable enough as a hostage to deter an invasion?

"Of course they do. That is why we will not invade but besiege."

>>1908841
>what forces does the Hand have in this?

Captain Ultred Galton answers this simply, "Five hundred foot, twenty ships. We'll blockade the sea and give lend to your efforts to besiege upon land."

>They cannot be married and consumate it for some time, the Backs or tollets either one. either marriage faces anullment. Can we not use that to force our pace?

"No, Ser Grallner," Lord Belmore says plainly, "We cannot, because someone else is already on a timetable. These actions need to be decisive, timely, and legal. So that the rest of this plan may be put into motion. And to harken back to your previous question, the longer we wait, the more likely House Back begins to suspect and set up a trap. And we do not want that, correct?"

>>1908863
OOC time so we can clear this up some.

>whats tollets stake in this? why armen tollet?
He wants to become a Lord and sees his opportunity. Giving over the estate to Lord Belmore and swearing his loyalty to him rather than Lord Royce is all the better as far as he's concerned since Lord Belmore is bringing the money to the table. Sure he'll start small with the parcel of land that the Earps and Tolletts feuded over that the Dawntower was once a part of. But there is growth and promises. He's an ambituous man.

>>1908891
>What about the inheritable claim on our lands?
Tollett couldn't give a damn about it because Grey Glen is the better prize. Plus, coin and Lord Belmore would ward him off from the notion. And Wylla's claim on the Whitestone is tenuous at best, it would barely work and only if there are literally no other options. Belmore would throw your sister and her husband in Whitestone Keep before he let them make their claim. Basically, it's a nonissue.

>>1908933
>If the girl dies who owns the estate, us?
The Bank of Bays does. To pay off some of the debt owed to them. Lord Belmore wants the estate for himself and is willing to pay off the fullness of the debt to the Bank of Bays to assure he becomes the sole owner of it.

With all of that bonus information are we fine to move on? Going with the consensus yay?

>>1908821
But by the law of sucession she would inherit Grey Glen after the death of Armen if he dies without male heirs.
Unless he's the cousin of the cousin of Uthor.

>>1908675
Those questions sate my anxiety.

In exchange for Lady Wylla Earp and helping the Black Hand Company invade Crow’s Barrens to retake her, you will be given one thousand dragons (5 Wealth) and have the girl off your hands. Do you accept the deal?
>Yay

>>1908675
>nay

Id rather go to the church and divorce her from her husband, as she is our legal ward we have the legal right to take her back, if they deny this we can promise them fire and fury not on our part but on Belmores, suicide and near annihilation of their is insanity and likely more than one of them will see this

Doing this peacefully would likely help us shed the butcher for a better title

>>1909004
yes

>>1909008
You know how there are Arryns in Gulltown that never get brought up when we're talking about the heir of House Arryn? Same principle, Armen is so far removed from the main line, and likely part of one that was banished or left Westeros to go to Essos that he isn't even in the talks to be in the line of succession. So it goes to Uthor's only child instead since she's the most direct descendant of the current Lord. Sure, he could have married her off to someone that would assure the Tollett name lived on but I'm assuming he presumes that one of Bordain's children will inherit his House and either change their names or arms or something to reflect their status as his heir.

There's also the chance that Armen is full of shit and making it all up and Belmore is just paying off a lot of people.

>>1909030
>spoiler
Now I really wonder what Maffew and Belmore were talking about behind closed doors.

You give Captain Ultred a look of reproach when all is said and done, “It will not come to that, Captain,” you say, wondering how the descendant of a Champion of the Faith could turn to such lawless and dishonor activity, you regard your liege fully ignoring the sellsail, “My Lord I would still advise caution in this but when the need arises I am your man. The deal is acceptable.”

A thin smile creeps upon Lord Belmore’s face when you give your final answer on the matter. Captain Ultred for his part looks at the very least contented by it.

“I’ll have my men ready then. No longer than three months from now, that is when we strike as agreed,” he says and leaves off, his black cloak swirling behind him. The Black Hand Company were not someone you wished to deal with in full, truth be told, and you hoped that a siege would not leave you with them as allies for far too long.

Lord Belmore sits back again, puffing himself up with delight after the exchange, taking part in either his sixth or seventh cup of mulled wine as the last of the boys enter the field to take part in the presumably last round. You finally hear a full list of names first the reds, Brody Stone and Eamonn Elesham, and second the yellows, Benfrey Frey, Erick Erenford, and Jay Charlton. The inclusion of Freys confuses you and you turn to Lord Belmore.

“Lord Walder Frey is a close friend of mine,” he says simply, “He is a man of business and coin, such as myself and one who understands the importance of family. It was a shame I was unable to convince my sister to marry the man when Lady Bethany Rosby passed. But when he requested his son be squired here, I could hardly turn down the him down, when he arrived with his friends all the better to make close allies with those in the Riverlands. He has taken a liking to your silver as well, or the coin that it generates at least. And I do aim to keep the Lord of the Crossing happy.”

You shrug, pressing eyes forward towards the yard again, “Of course my Lord.”

Lord Belmore stands again, honoring the squires with his words and raising his hand, that each of their eyes follow barring Eamonn Elesham. He watches the Charlton boy across from him. Perhaps he had watched your spar with Ser Vyell a touch closer than you expected. Your liege’s hand drops and the boys all swivel their hands except for Elesham who rushes the Charlton boy and bounces the pommel of his sword off of his head. He takes the strike about as well as one would assume and is quickly counted out when he falls upon his backside, dazed and waving his heads in surrender. The crowd laughs as he is escorted off the field.

Meanwhile Brody Stone is taking on the Frey and Erenford boys singlehandedly, not giving up any land and warding them off with his morningstar. Erenford attempts to engage but is knocked to the side when Brody charges the Frey and begins to pummel at his shield and push him towards a corner of the yard. Likewise, Elesham begins an assault on the downed Erenford boy who just barely manages to get to his feet and counter his hammer blow with his buckler. The two duke it out for a moment trading hits that leave the two boys woozy and hardly on their feet by the end of it. Elesham luckily manages to get his defense back up and tire out the riverboy forcing him towards the wall with careful short steps and then forcing a yield. The crowd applauds the young man’s chivalry, and you must admit to yourself you are impressed.

Nearly at the same time Brody and the Frey begin to look like they’re in the last stretches of their fight. The Frey is tired out by Brody’s overwhelming strength and presence, but you can see the fat boy huffing and puffing under his kettlehelm, it takes him too long to wind up his swings and the Frey boy is able to manage a few hits before being absolutely clobbered in his wide open guard when he takes the wrong step hoping to finish Brody before he has the chance to bring his weapon to bare. The boy crumbles and falls to the wayside leaving only Brody Stone, the Bastard of Strong Song, and Eamonn Elesham left.

The two boys stagger over before your Lord’s box, Ser Bradic is beside himself, standing and applauding for his baseborn son as if we true. Lord Belmore keeps his words simple and short, stating that now they were both victors, but only one would have the honor of a Knighthood. The two take their places across the yard from each other and you notice the similarities between them and your own fight. Brody bounces from side to side, but it is more of a lumbering movement, with his morningstar dragging on the ground, as he if were a fat cart getting ready to roll down a hill. Elesham meanwhile has taken a defensive stance that looks exactly like your own, catching his breath and watching the bigger boy rather than Lord Belmore. But when Lord Belmore’s hand drops it is nothing alike. Brody does charge him, Elesham stands resolute and unfaltering but the morningstar that smashes into his shield sends the smaller boy reeling. The wood splinters and cracks, shattering onto the frozen ground and the boy is sent to his knees. Brody slows his roll, bending slightly to catch his breath with a hand on his knee while Elesham attempts to pull himself together again, crawling away on all fours, his arm bloody where the wood punctured it.

Brody Stone pulls himself up to full length, hulling his morningstar over his shoulder and walks over to the fallen boy, he puts his boot upon his back and forces him to the ground and dropping the head of his morningstar into the ground beside his nose. And with that, it is done, Elesham yields. Brody Stone raises his arms in victory and the crowd cheers and hoots for him, for a fight well done. Ser Bradic Belmore beside you nearly leaps the bannister but thinks better of it and instead rushes out the back and around onto the field to embrace his baseborn son. You lick your lips, dry as they felt, Eamonn Elesham fought the more honorable duels this day, he acted as a True Knight would, had he won you would not hesitate as you are now. You had knighted a dear friend not weeks ago, but it was because he did you honor and loyalty in times of strife. Brody Stone was a bastard, a boy that would be forever tied to your name whenever he entered himself into Tourney or Melee, amongst the assembled Belmore Household and military might. Could you trust a bastard with your blessing of a Knighthood? Was this one of Lord Belmore’s tests, to see if you were loyal? Your mind moved too slowly for such thoughts and the frown upon your face is all too telling when Lord Belmore speaks.

“Well Ser Grallner, it would appear Brody Stone has won,” Lord Belmore says beside you, “I believe you owe him a Knighthood, before all of my Household to see. So that they know their Knight-Commander rewards victory and honors those that bring honor to House Belmore. Do it Ser Grallner, the boy deserves it.”

Knight Brody Stone?
>Yay
>Nay

[Intermission]

>>1909237
>First talk to him make sure he knows what a true knight is. Not just some massive and horrendously strong brute, but a man of honor even when he has oaths that conflict.

Then knight him and smack him so he remembers to keep his vows.

Alright so it's getting late and I can feel myself getting slower than I usually am so we're going to call it here for now.

Plan is to pick up again tomorrow/later today, Thursday 28 Sept at 4-5PM EST. And we'll finish up in Strong Song.

Know there was a lot of info dumping today so sorry if this all seemed very dry. Hopefully the fighting helped to even that out. But as you can see, had Ser Vyell Vyvyan been taking injuries and wounds like a normal PC or like an opponent Landon is likely to meet in the finals of the Waynwood Melee he will begin to actually meet his match. Landon is a tank but he does not hit particularly hard compared to someone with a Greatsword or Flail. And he is not quick either, losing the initiative to Vyell. So again, I reiterate, Landon can be beaten.

>>1909237
>Yay

The boy didn't dishonor himself and seems more than capable.

>>1909237
>>Yay

>>1909237
>Yay

>>1909255
Too be fair we also rolled like shit and have basic gear

>>1909237
>>Yay
>First talk to him make sure he knows what a true knight is. Not just some massive and horrendously strong brute, but a man of honor even when he has oaths that conflict.

>>1909255
Thanks for running Dad, I expect a lot of burning temples when Landon has to knight a bastard

>>1909237
>Yay

>>1908841
Its tollet or its Bordain. One is an NPC, the other is a PC driven by the most ruthless powerhungry character ever. I know what I'd think.

>>1909237
>yay

Perhaps giving Benedar this will ease other matters.

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Alright, so this looks like a yay. With some Landon speeching, because honorable knight, etc.

Landon made the smart move here, get the men on his side and some important Belmores on his side. Ser Bradic commands all of the cavalry, he'll be happier to serve Landon now that his son owes his Knighthood to him.

In other news, here's a Belmore recent family tree. Ignore Bryen's line there, that's only if he ends up taking over Fossett Hall. So that's all noncanon right now. So no freaking out.

>>1909376
Father. I was wondering. Did you expect to be found out as quickly as you did (after your first update) What were you thoughts and feelings when it happen ?

>>1909254
This without the smacking, we just fought a guy over him striking our squire.

>>1909237
>Yay

That conversation with Belissa was beautifully awkward, Father. I applaud you.

>>1909237
>yay

Can we knight them both? One for winning the melee and one for exemplary chivalry

Also maybe recruit the latter

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bdmh9eRUz8g

I'm gonna suggest this as Landon's singing voice, maybe a bit deeper, but this is great.

>>1907597
Why'd you start a new thread? Now I missed it :(

>>1909237
>Yay

I vote no for the Smack or the talk. The talk should only be when he stands a vigil in the Sept, as expected.

But seek out the other squire and his knight. Commend them on training him well.

Excellent writing, Warrior! I could almost feel every blow of the melee.

Also with Lord Belmore happy with us I think turning down his offer of marriage (if that is what Anons want) will go down much easier. Officially, it might be that we have already promised to compete in the melee for another's hand.


If Anons do decide to marry the nice Belmore girl, I vote for buying as many books as she likes and spending 1 hour a day having her read poetry to us.

>>1909857
yeah WarDad has a consistently excellent style of writing that lends itself well to GoT.

I personally think Bellissa is amazing. But she seems a bad match for Landon. I the player Anon would marry the hell out of her. As it stands now however I don't think their marriage would be a happy one. Of course, a happy marriage is by no means common in Westeros. And Bellisa may well be the best match available.

I strongly suspect her marriage with the Waynwoods fell through due to Benedar's backroom manipulations of the situation being distasteful to Anya Waynwood. The failed alliance would explain further why Benedar especially doesn't want Landon marrying Allys Waynwood. If we win the tourney it MIGHT be possible to repair that relationship and have her married to the man she prefers. A Belmore-Waynwood alliance would (if im looking at things right) Be very powerful in the Vale.

Hey WarDad, any chanve we can get a more detailed political map of the Vale, its getting hard to keep up with in my head.

Also, what type of inheretence laws do the seven kingdoms use?

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>>1909888
Different houses of different cultures seem to use different inheritance laws, so that seems to be a hard question to answer.

Here's the most accurate political map of the Greatgorge region of the Vale, which this quest focuses on. The Royces, Waynwoods and Graftons are all powerful forces in the Vale that inhabit the Southernmost region, so you won't see them in this image.

>>1909888
>Also, what type of inheretence laws do the seven kingdoms use?

From memory it seems to mostly run on Primogeniture successopm with gender laws being in line with Agnatic-cognatic la, the exception to this from memory is Dorne which has some level of Absoloute cognatic.

TLDR: All men (or main dynasty men) Inherit before women with the exception of dawn which has women inheriting on the same grounds as men

>As it stands now however I don't think their marriage would be a happy one. Of course, a happy marriage is by no means common in Westeros. And Bellisa may well be the best match available.

Father/Warrior went on record saying the Waynewood girl is the best Landon can do

>Implying Happiness is for all MC's

>>1909909
hmm quite a bit of unclaimed land there.

especially the moon swallow lands to the north. theres at least a goat village amd the dawn tower we could fold into our holdings


>>1910094
I remember Alys Waynwood is our victory marriage. But, Im not entirely sure why.

Yes Waynwood is a powerful house, and marrying Alys will no doubt come with a substantial dowry, and status increase.

On the other hand our liege lord dislikes the Waywoods and has a habit of plotting revenge against his percieved enemies.

Honestly I would like Landon to marry Alys while Belissa marries her former suitor. In a perfect world Benedar would drop dead at the wedding and Cador would be our new liege.

>>1910242
A great deal of the Vale is harsh, inhospitable mountains inhabited primarily by mountain men. Even if you do manage to clear out an area, the chances are that it won't be good for much aside from subsistence goat farming.

No point in claiming huge swathes of mountains if all you're going to do is patrol them in order to protect the handful of hardy goat herders that are willing to inhabit them.

>>1910298
>not wanting to become a goat lord.
I no longer can call you my nigga.

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>>1909909
The only thing this is missing is House Fossett I realize. Which is to the Northeast of you in that little nook that's touching Hersy and Lynderly. Oh and I suppose the land that Belmore would put Armen Tollett on, which is a thin strip that runs over Badics and touches Grey Glen on the left and yourself on the right.

That V to our direct northeast is where the goat herder village is.

There are a few other small Houses that live in that unclaimed land, but they are poor or barely alive at best and aren't worth mentioning for the reasons others have stated. More often than not they're Knightly Houses that won't last a generation where their liege just put them there to ward off mountain clans. It usually doesn't work. There are a lot of scattered ruins there that are akin to the Dawntower. First men constructions and Andal alike that all hold their own secrets.

So I got home a bit earlier today than I expected. Going to do a few things around the house, get some food and then we'll run. Hopefully a bit earlier than planned. If not, eh I tried.

>>1910298
I'm hoping to purchase at least another silver mine, and a quarry.

And goat herding villages are great!

>>1910399
Completely unrelated to what you just said but I really like how you have all of these personal standards for knights and houses. It just makes them all feel more real to me.

>>1910399
This makes me want to conquer and rebuild forts until we control right up to the scorched vale.

Maybe find a valerian steel blade in the ruins.

Kill heathen barbarians the entire way.

DEUS VULT

There was little reason why you couldn’t you soon realize. Any reasons you had were more personal misgivings than anything else. Lord Belmore looks to you expectantly, and you know this is more posturing from your liege than anything else. The men would respect you more for doing it, the Belmores cousins would be more willing to work with you, their respective commands more willing to listen. It was a game, it was a play. He couldn’t have possibly known that Brody Stone would win. It was simply a coincidence. Biting your lower lip and nodding you stand and catch the thin smile of Lord Belmore spread across his face as you go to leave for the field.

The crowd parts for you as you walk towards the ring, a few bow their heads respectfully, others merely gawking and staring. A few of the other boys are still watching, those who were knocked out early and Maester Fallaways didn’t need to attend to and they all bow their heads before you. Among them is Eamonn Elesham, having been helped up by them and brought over where they’re consoling him in loss. The boy breaks away from their hold and falls to a knee with his head bowed.

“I’m sorry to have failed my Lord,” he says, “I shame myself before you.”

You give him a short look, “Stand squire.”

He does so, though his eyes do not.

“Look at me lad.”

With reluctance he does.

“You fought well today, it was good and honorable. You have a bright future, do not feel ashamed. Practice, patience, Faith remember those and you will garner your Knighthood soon enough.”

His eyes are flighty, but he nods his head all the same, “Thank you my Lord, I will do better.”

Eamonn Elesham was a good lad you realize, he certainly did have the future before him, if he only could learn to employ your fighting stances better he would have won. Patting the boy awkwardly on the shoulder you hop the small palisade, your cloak catching in the wind as you approach Brody Stone and his father Ser Bradic Belmore. The latter smiles widely at your approach, putting his arm around his son and whispering in his ear before pushing him forward. The lad is red in the face, his red hair matted down with sweat and blood from a few of the minor wounds he took, his nose is stuffed up with cotton to stem the flow of blood, but the crack on his temple goes unattended until you are done with him. He looks at you with murky eyes, a dull look to them if you ever saw one his mouth hanging a gap for want of air and you assume a lack of manners.

“Kneel,” you state simply.

He complies, in an awkward lumbering sense, laying his sword before himself. You slowly pull your sword from its scabbard on your side and holding it horizontally with both hands. He looks at you nervously, and back at his father the moment you speak, “Brody Stone, tell me what it is to be a True Knight.”

His face scrunches up, looking to his father for help who merely waves his hand for the boy to fend for himself. He turns his head back at you, searching for the answer in the dirt beneath you, “To protect the innocent, be brave, just. Uphold my vows,” he stammers out.

Ser Bradic smiles behind him and you imagine that his father had taken his own baseborn son for squire knowing few others would. The Belmore cousin was a good and honorable knight you knew it to be true, though a part of you disliked his willingness to father and foster a bastard, the men did respect him as a leader. Nodding slightly you look about the assembled crowd, silenced by your presence before the lad. You raise your sword, pointing it towards his forehead, “Brody Stone of House Belmore…”

Moving your sword to his right shoulder you touch it lightly, remembering the words more clearly now than when it had been Asher before you, “In the name of the Warrior I charge you be brave,” moving the sword to his left, “In the name of the Father I charge you be just,” back again, “In the name of the Mother I charge you defend the young and innocent,” and back once more, “In the name of the Maiden I charge you protect all women.”

“I will be brave. I will be just. I will protect the young, the innocent, and all women. These are my sworn vows,” Brody repeats to you.

“Withdrawing your sword and holding it with both hands again you nod, “Then arise Ser Brody Stone.”

The crowd claps, some cheering, though some murmur. You cast a look towards the box where Lord Belmore now stands, clapping his hands slowly with that thin smile upon his lips.

---

“Seven above Ser Landon I don’t believe I’ve ever eaten so much for breakfast in my life,” Maffew Shett says to you when you arrive in his chambers a few hours after the squire’s melee. Ser Bradic had insisted you come along as he commissioned his son his first set of true plate armour. The look the smith had given him was humorous, the muttering about the cost of steel for the boy more so. Maffew had spent the better part of the morning negotiating with Lord Belmore and Preston Moore on your behalf and now you found yourself before several contracts that spoke no words to you.

Maffew rolls out of his bed and stands over you, “So things went…”

>Please roll 6d6 for Maffew’s Persuasion(Bargain).
We’ll be using all three rolls.

Rolled 5, 2, 3 = 10 (3d6)

>>1910853

Rolled 4, 4, 3, 1, 3, 1 = 16 (6d6)

>>1910853

Rolled 2, 4, 3, 6, 1, 1 = 17 (6d6)

>>1910873
Messed it up

Rolled 1, 5, 2, 3, 1, 3 = 15 (6d6)

>>1910853

>>1910853
Maffew dundidgood

>>1910876
>>1910878
>>1910879
15,16,14

Maffew rolls on a 5D+1B for Persuasion(Bargain) for those curious.

Rolled 6, 6, 4, 1, 2, 5 = 24 (6d6)

>>1910884
odd

Oh right almost forgot, I also need:

>Please roll 4d6 for Maffew's Deception(Bluff).
Taking Bo3 on this one.

Rolled 5, 5, 5, 5 = 20 (4d6)

>>1910934

Rolled 1, 2, 4, 2 = 9 (4d6)

>>1910934

Rolled 2, 2, 5, 4 = 13 (4d6)

>>1910934
ones?

>>1910950
>>1910951
>>1910953
15,8,11

Good job first anon. Maffew rolls with a 3D+1B for Deception(Bluff).

>>1910957
Thanks how badly did Maffew do?

>>1910967
literally half as well as he could have

but then I bet Benedar bought it.

>>1911012
>literally half as well as he could have done

That's not how this works. High rolls are good and low rolls are bad but let me remind you of the difficulty ratings:
>Automatic = 0
>Easy = 3
>Routine = 6
>Challenging = 9
>Formidable = 12
>Hard = 15
>Very Hard = 18
>Heroic = 21+

If all four rolls were hard, then he only failed one of them. That's how well he did. Going into this expecting every roll to be 20+ and gnashing your teeth when you get less than that is the wrong way of going about this. The fact that we get best of three on most rolls is a pretty big boon too.

Maffew Shett’s Bluff
DC: 15
Rolls: 15,8,11
>Success, One Degree.

Maffew Shett’s Bargaining I
DC: 15
Roll: 15
>Success, One Degree.

Maffew Shett’s Bargaining II
DC: 15
Roll: 16
>Success, One Degree.

“Well enough, I would say,” he says after a short pause. You assume to find the right words, “Lord Belmore is a hard man to bargain with. He knows his coin, and Preston Moore knows his numbers and the going rates about the Vale far better than I. In truth things could have gone far worse.”

“Should I ask about..?”

“No, no you should not. Less you know, hm?” Maffew interrupts. A part of you was curious if there were other offers on the table, but a part of you also knew that Maffew wasn’t above bluffing either. Your father certainly hadn’t taught him that skill. But you hold your tongue all the same.
“So to begin with, it was made very clear to me that Lord Belmore wants silver. Either raw or processed. However I discerned that he would prefer to have the processed silver rather than our raw silver. You see he needs to employ another House to smelt and process the silver into the pure bars that he then sells to House Grafton, as he does not have the means here in Strong Song or oddly Grimarbour, hurting his bottom line. Now I don’t believe for a second he is incapable of starting such an operation but it isn’t his way. Strong Song deals in processed and complete goods more often than not, it would be a hassle. So from there we negotiated.”

Maffew puts the first contract in front of you. Pointing towards numbers.

“Now, the first contract is more set in stone like our previous one. Seeing as it wasn’t the specific good he desired. For every one silver he was willing to trade two and a quarter foods. A significant uptick from the one and two thirds we had been at originally. It isn’t the three that my brother offered but isn’t the highway robbery it had been before, if you’ll excuse my language.”

You frown at Maffew who sighs and rubs the back of his neck.

“The deal hadn’t been fair Ser. You weren’t given much of a chance at the end of the Rebellion, the House was poor, its reputation wasn’t great and there were more than enough Lords and Knights who would willingly take over the silver mine in your stead. We did what we had to.”

You sigh, feeling frustrated over your lack of trade knowledge, “Continue Maffew.”

He nods, “Alright, see the first contract is for eight units of silver for eighteen foods. Enough to put us a touch further over our necessary bi-monthly quota. Give us some wiggle room while you expand the military holdings of House Grallner, hm? I would recommend this deal if you’d rather keep your more profitable processed silver to yourself in the hopes of finding a better trade partner for it or simply to use to raise our fortunes when it comes time to do the bi-monthly house affairs...

... It is certainly more set in stone, and we are guaranteed to be able to meet those requirements. The contract, luckily, will last for three years, rather than ten. So we will be more able to renegotiate during the spring and summer, Seven bless us.”

You nod, somewhat understanding what Maffew was saying. He takes the paper and puts it to the side, and picks up the second place it before you.

“This one is a bit looser. To put it simply,” he starts, “Lord Belmore is well aware of the worth of processed silver. Particularly to those looking to turn it into alloys for coin minting. We save him bottom line, his buyer’s trouble in burning out the imperfections, and allows us to more easily dictate the supply given demand. So the base contract is for every one unit of processed silver we provide Lord Belmore will trade four foods. The deal at present is for four processed silvers for a sixteen foods. Keeping our minimum food supply just above the level. But here’s the kicker, Lord Belmore wished for more in the base contract, but given we are one of perhaps two or three producers of silver in the Vale I was able to limit the base trade and add a caveat that for every additional piece of processed silver he would pay instead six units of foods. Thus giving us far more wiggle room to work with that extra processed silver every few months. It is slightly less reliable to be sure, you can’t build an army on the maybe promise of food every couple of months. It would entirely free up a large bulk of our raw silver. Other Houses may pay a premium for such knowing that House Grafton is minting coins again or you could use it for your own production should we ever hire the appropriate men. This contract would last for five years, however, a touch longer. I would recommend this if you would rather keep your options open with your less valuable but more plentiful raw silver and don’t mind tying up our most valuable resource for the most part. There is a slight worry that should we spend the other processed silver in trade and Lord Belmore comes calling for it that month that we would become wroth, so even our open bar is somewhat tied up. And we can sell the raw silver to aid our fortunes, just not as effectively as the processed silver would be.”

Maffew sighs and takes that paper and puts the last before you, scratching at his goatee slightly before continuing.

Maffew Shett’s Bargaining III
DC: 18
Roll:14
>Failed.

“Only problem is, Lord Belmore would not budge on the current contract. He seems perfectly willing to let it run out over the next two years before we begin this new one. I perhaps overplayed my hand regarding the Bank of Bay’s loan, my apologies.”

“So what is the penalty for early termination?”

“Four hundred dragons,” Maffew says, “Which we have at present. But it is still detracting from our limited coffers.”

“Recommendation?”

“Truthfully Ser?” he exhales sharply, “I would do it. We are being raked over the coals at present, it is a small amount of wealth that we can afford to better House Grallner. However there was… Another option as well. Lord Belmore told me he would waive the fee if you wed Lady Belissa Belmore in addition to her dowry.”

You frown heavily and Maffew sighs deeply.

“Had thought that would be your reaction,” he says, “Look Ser, I cannot tell you who to marry, but if it were me I would marry to Belmore girl. Lord Belmore is not a man that is easy to get upon your side, that he wishes you to be a part of his family is a good sign. Even if surely his motives are far beyond either us. Food for thought, hm? Now, which of these contracts would you prefer?”

Current Bi-Monthly Production & Trade
>Production - Month II, 288AC:
15 Raw Silver
5 Processed Silver

>Stockpile - Month II, 288AC:
2 Raw Silver
5 Processed Silver

>Bimonthly Trade:
9 Raw Silver:15 Food (House Belmore trade)
3 Raw Silver:3 Faith Points (Faith Tithe)
1 Raw Silver:3 Food (House Shett trade)

>Food Required - Month II, 288AC:
18/15

Lord Belmore’s Proposed New Trades
>Contract I: 1 Raw Silver:2.25 Foods, 8 Raw Silver:18Foods

Notes:
>3 Year term, shorter of the two
>Lord Belmore’s lesser desired contract, would be content with it
>Leaves your 5 units of Processed Silver open for more valuable trade, or use in House Fortunes bonuses where you pay 1 Processed Silver for a +2 bonus to House Fortunes.

>Contract II: 1 Processed Silver:4 Foods, 4 Processed Silver:16 Foods

Notes:
>5 Year term, longer of the two
>Lord Belmore’s preferred contract, would improve relations with your liege
>Leaves 11 units of Raw Silver open for less valuable trade, or use in House Fortunes bonuses where you pay 3 Raw Silver for a +2 bonus to House Fortunes.
>Lord Belmore reserves the right to purchase a remaining unit of Processed Silver at a 1:6 ratio, without warning whenever he desires, thus almost tying up your remaining unit.

Vote:
>Contract I
>Contract II

Exiting your current Contract:

Notes:
>Cost is 2 Wealth to exit your current contract and immediately start the new one. Your current Wealth is 2, +30 in the coming months from the Bank of Bays loan.
>Current contract will last for another 2 years, and as Maffew says is borderline highway robbery, Lord Belmore has little issue with allowing you to finish it out.
>Lord Belmore will waive the fee if you marry Lady Belissa Belmore in addition to her dowry, whether or not Landon sees this as bribery is in the air but he doesn’t like it inherently.
>Maffew Shett would recommend you at least pay the price but would prefer you marry the girl.
>If voted yay, will not lock you into paying right away, only if you turn down Lady Belissa in a later vote.

Vote:
>Yay
>Nay

>Questions?

>>1911196
>Contract 2
>Yay


We're expanding the mine and improving the smelter with the loan anyways.

>>1911196
>contract II
>yay
Can we increase our smelting operation? And we should marry the Belmore girl. It's not perfect but it makes us best buddies with our liege, and from the looks of it our liege is making big moves.

>>1911196
>Contract I
>Yay

>>1911196
>Contract 2

>nay

i love Bellisa, but we need options

use a loan from the church to pay the exit fee.

>>1911196
>>Contract I
>Yay

>>1911249
i say we wait till after the dance to decide whether or not we marry a girl for gold.

>>1911196
>Contract I
>Yay

File: Smelter.png (24 KB, 355x179)

24 KB PNG

>>1911249
>Can we increase our smelting operation?
Yes you may for 5 Wealth, by purchasing another smelter, you may have up to 3 smelters with a Valuable mine, and 4 with a Rich mine.

Note that the personage discount will not stack, but the population bonus will.

>>1911196
>Contract II
>Yay

>>1911282
How much extra silver does that give us?

>>1911294
That same amount your current smelter does, 5 Processed Silver.

Welp, ~25 minutes is long enough for this vote.

Contract II wins by a single vote. And Yay wins pretty easily.

The Belmore girl is looking really good. 5 wealth dowry (if we include the bribe) and we get into bed with our liege lords family.

>>1911363
I really would like to see what the Waynwood is offering... this is a tough call

>>1911363
Benedar doesnt seem averse to using his family as tools.

we also dont know what the Waynwoods are offering, but it likely beats 5 wealth handily

>>1911196
>Contract 2
>Yay

>>1911319
Wardad, this doesnt irrevocably betroth us to bellisa correct? hence the option to buy out the contract?

>>1911397
The vote had nothing to do with marrying her, if we decide to marry her he waves the fee

>>1911397
>>If voted yay, will not lock you into paying right away, only if you turn down Lady Belissa in a later vote.
It does not.

>>1911363
Still her being used as a tool sticks in Landon's craw. Additionally we'd not being following the advice we set to him about getting to know the person properly and slighting the Waynewoods.

File: Spoiler Image (424 KB, 1343x1500)

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Gib Hot Valyrian wife

Or I'll sing you a tale of Fyre and Blood

>Production - Months III-IV, 288AC:
15 Raw Silver
5 Processed Silver

>Stockpile - Month III-IV, 288AC:
11 Raw Silver
4-6 Processed Silver (Based on outcome of Bordain trade)

>Bimonthly Trade:
4 Processed Silver:16 Foods (House Belmore Trade)
3 Raw Silver:3 Faith Points (Faith Tithe)
1 Raw Silver:3 Foods (House Shett Trade)

>Food Required - Month II, 288AC:
19/15

“Give me the second,” you say and scratch your name, albeit poorly as per the norm, on the line that Maffew indicates. He salts the paper and gives you a second for your own records, or rather Maffew’s records and you repeat the process. He melts the gold wax for your seal and you press the griffon of your house into it with your ring, the only ornament you ever wore. A gift from her…

“And of exiting our current contract?”

“We will pay two four hundred dragons,” you say shortly.

“So a no on the marriage?”

“I did not say that,” you respond, sitting back and pinching the bridge of your nose, “I am yet undecided on the matter. But at the very least we will pay.”

“Very well Ser Landon,” Maffew says, plopping down into the chair across from you and sighing, “You know he offered me a place here, in Strong Song.”

Maffew chuckles as you look around your hands with a perplexed look.

“I turned him down of course. While the title of Strong Song’s Cofferer is certainly a step up from Steward then I would need to answer to that prat, Preston Moore. But I told him my place was in Whitestone Keep, I owe your father a debt for teaching me all I know, and that debt passes to you Ser Landon. For both my part in the disaster that brought our home close to ruin, and what I still owe that man. I…” he pauses to take a deep breath, “I am truly sorry Landon, for happened. I hope my time here with you has shown that I still have the best interests of House Grallner as my primary motivation and that someday I may regain your trust fully. And perhaps even may attend morning devotion with you once more.”

You nod, wordlessly. Maffew had certainly done a good and proper job during the few days you were here in Strong Song. His counsel was good and as far as you could tell the deals he had managed to hammer out with Lord Belmore were fair, at the very least. You speak plainly, “You’ve done well Maffew, thank you.”

He smiles somewhat. It would still be a long time before the trust between the two of you was fully rebuilt, but this was a step in the right direction to be sure. You leave off a few moment’s later, after he told you a story of Lord Belmore’s rant regarding Lord Nararo Aros swooping in and taking your good business away from him. Apparently he was rather peeved with having to deal with the Pentoshi in the first place, but their hold on the Earp’s Essosi estate were rather firm and outside of Westerosi law. He had attempted to pry and figure out the specifics of these estates but got no answer other than they were of a more exotic flair. All things particularly lost on you.

The rest of the day and evening is rather uneventful. You sit with Ser Bryen and his family during the night’s feast rather at the high table where instead Ser Brody Stone and Ser Bradic Belmore sit alongside Lord Belmore. It slightly annoys you to see a baseborn boy being showered with such praise but… It was not your place here to make a scene of it. Ser Michel the Sisterman, Parwyn, and Maffew all join you and for once you feel relaxed in Strong Song. Lady Sara Fossett is a sweet woman you learn further, her doting over you and your head coming as a surprise. She tells a story of how Bryen had been knocked from a horse while trying to court her at a Tourney in Hersy and had been out for three days from knocking his head on a rock. When he awoke the only thing he could ask for was to see her, so that her smile may mend his broken bones. She had obliged and they were betrothed and married not soon after. Bryen’s girls d’aww at the story and you smile slightly at the laugh Michel and Bryen share thereafter. But Bryen keeps quiet for most of the night, keeping his eyes away from sight of drink and from your own, out of what you assume is shame for his actions the previous night.

The feast ends earlier than the night before and you are allowed a moment to yourself. The slight buzz in your ears hasn’t yet gone and Maester Fallaways had recommend you sleep on the opposite side of the bruise lest you wake up in a world of pain and suffering in the morning. Well more so than had been expected. As you looked out upon the valley beneath Strong Song you marvel at its beauty, humming slightly to yourself of an old song you once knew. It had been very long since you had sung it, and half the lyrics were lost to the years now. You supposed most of your old songs had gone in truth. Forgotten with her and her joy at hearing them. Falling into bed you look at the soundless silver bell on your bedside table trying not to think of too much, putting the thought from mind lest you hurt yourself more with pointless thought and painful memories of the man you lost her too.

---

The morning is brisk, and you find yourself among the yard with Parwyn, you wore your gambeson and cloak, rather than your plate this morning. Neither of you are able to train this morning, Maester’s orders so the two of you instead walk about the yard and Parwyn names off the various coat of arms he sees so that you may do better to remember them another day. The lad is smart you had to admit, clever in his own way, but still too impatient when it came to combat, he was more like Ser Vyell Vyvyan, who you thankfully do not see on your walk, where he is willing to charge headlong into battle rather than wait for the opportunity such as yourself. You’d break the habit someday, or so you hoped. Stopping briefly at the smith’s village you thank the master armourer for your new shield, it had been just as you hoped and he puffs himself up in pride at the praise. Informing him of your plans to purchase a full suit of plate armour from him someday prompts the man to take your measurements on the spot and says to just send word and he will have it done rather than you needing to make a needless trip. Thanking him again you leave off and Parwyn scampers off to do as boys do, he had made friends in your short visit here, or at least something of a friend, with the Erenford boy. Good for a boy to have friends.

Finding yourself alone and with the day to do as you pleased you can think of little to nothing to do with it. It was the final day of your visit here, there would be the great feast in your honor tonight and you would leave off. For awhile you sit beneath an evergreen simply watching the men do their morning drills. Pinecones of green have begun to sprout alongside the golden ones of full maturity, perhaps an early sign that spring was soon to come. You idly pick at a bundle of three, two green and one golden, pulling away the pieces of the golden one to keep your hands from boredom. Standing as the men begin to break for luncheon you think to yourself if there is anything you’d like to do, or anyone you’d like to speak with before leaving Strong Song.

Open Prompt:
>Is there anyone you guys would like to speak with? Anything you’d like to do before we wrap things up in Strong Song? If nothing substantial is suggested or popular enough we will skip to the final feast of the visit.

>>1911533
Lets find our redhaired lover. Clearly Landon has been unable to get her out of his mind. Put some peace to it.

>>1911533
Let's visit the sept again. Might be the last time in another while.

>>1911533
I'll vote for the sept, and encourage us to run in horror from >>1911541
Let us pray for clarity

>>1911533
The sept seems like the best option. Perhaps some advice from the local septon on personal matters, such as marriage and whatnot.

>>1911533
Speak to Lincoln if he's awake, promise to bring our maester to try and see if he can rig up a way for our brother to walk again or at least be mobile when we visit Strong song again. Also apologize for our bungling of his health, as little as it will mean to him.

>>1911533
I'd like to speak to lincoln, and maybe get some help from the Septon about our lover... Priests are always full of wisdom, hopefully

>>1911541
Going to have to veto that one.
>>1911599
This too, Liam wouldn't let you near Lincoln anyway and all either of them would hear is empty promises at this point. Liam has said his piece, let it lie and give them the space they want.

Talking to the Septon is fine, however, asking for some advice and all. Not really substantial however and will just lead right into the next scene.

Nothing else, no one else?

>>1911618
Suppose we could hang with Belissa too, but it's been too clear that we have no hobbies (besides fighting, which we cannot do right now).

>>1911618
I MEAN WHAT ELSE IS THERE DAD, SHEESH

I'm kidding

>>1911618
Belissa, I wish to sing for her

>>1911618
CAdor is still touring yeah?

Maybe speak to the master about what can be done by him or another for Lincoln.

Talk to Brody Stone and the Elesharm kid about knightly stuff.

Ask Parwyn what he saw in the tourney good and bad.

Speak with Vyell about the troops and clear the air.

>>1911638
Frankly, going through all of those options would keep us in Strongsong for another thread or two.

>>1911627
>>1911630
Dancing with Belissa is the exact next scene so probably not.

>>1911638
Maester Fallaways is not the right man to speak to regarding that. It isn't among his specialties, he's more of a trade, commerce, topography, and ravens sort of Maester with just the baser levels of healing compared to someone like Benjin from Malroy.

Brody Stone is with his father hunting. Parwyn is spending the last day with the friend he made. And Ser Vyell would currently tell Landon to go fuck himself, and you'll have plenty of time to speak with him later in Whitestone Keep. Plus, clear the air about what? As far as Landon is concerned he did what was just and right in that situation if anything Vyell should be coming to apologize to him. Gotta remember the character we're playing here.

So Sept visit it is, guess I really shouldn't do these sort of prompts anymore. I'm always looking for two or three specific things that I drop hints at and no one ever really picks up on them. So eh. I'll rethink that in the future.

Also sorry for the delay. Significant other got home and needed some attention for a moment.

>>1911701
>I'm always looking for two or three specific things that I drop hints at and no one ever really picks up on them.
What was it in this case?

>>1911701
Speak with Byren about Benedar and the Fossetts?

>>1911742
that would be a reasonably good idea.

if Lord Hersy is around we could solicit his opinion of the Fosset matter, perhaps gain something our lord needs more than a bannerman

The day draws close to noon and you decide upon a visit to the Sept again, it would be quite awhile until you could visit a proper one you assume. At least until you visited Gulltown with Cador, whenever that may be. Finding Warrior amongst the stables you notice some Hedge Knights mounting up with Eamonn Elesham alongside them giving them a hand, though to little regard. When he notices you coming saddling your horse by yourself he rushes over and offers his hand. He was an eager boy at least. The lad speaks idly of the task as he does it, more of a reminder of the order in which the straps go and how to keep your testy horse from becoming distressed, rather than speaking to you in any meaningful way. When he is finished he bows his head and speaks, “My lord may I ride with you? I’m traveling with these Knights and leaving the island but I would like one more chance to know you Ser.”

“I see little reason why not,” you respond simply and the boy smiles, mounting up his old garron and trotting out after you. The Hedge Knights follow at a distance as you leave the gates, scoffing for perhaps the hundredth time at the ridiculousness of the pikemen guards. Eamonn questions your disdain for them and you explain how meaningless they were, just posturing rather than being any sort of meaningful defense. The men that patrolled the grounds in twos with their short swords and subtle hauberk were the true guardsmen, those were the ones you needed to watch for. Perhaps it was Lord Belmore’s genius that made him seem so… Unthreatening you wonder. But you knew better than to think that of the man.

When questioned why he traveled with Hedge Knights and not a master of his own given his status the boy looks down at his hands, “My elder brother was my sponsor,” he states, “He died during a clansman raid, at the time we were serving House Harrock to the south. The woman we were guarding died and several others. I escaped, only barely this was… Three years now I believe. I was two-and-ten then. My brother and I were the last of our line, distant cousins to the Lord of the Paps. I didn’t have a place there and was too afraid to return to High Harrock after. So I wandered. Would pick up with Hedge Knights here and there, they liked having a squire about I guess. Some were cruel, others grateful, not sure ‘bout this lot but guess they’ll do for now. Just never really settled down I suppose, or found a new master.”

You nod along to the boy’s story and frown slightly at the end.

“I’m sorry Ser Grallner,” he says hurriedly at your expression, “I don’t mean to ramble, or put my troubles on yourself. Just you asked and…”

“I did ask,” you say cutting him off and the two of you remain in silence for the remainder of the ride.

You part ways with the boy not soon after reaching the port, wishing him well in his travels as you wander towards the Sept. Service isn’t being held when you arrive and won’t be until the evening, so instead you take to a pew alone in silent devotion and prayer. Fingers lightly pressing spinning the prayer wheel you often kept as you spoke those few verses that had stuck from Septon Briscoe. The Septon who had taken your confessional the other day sits beside you, blessing himself with the seven-pointed star and kneeling.

“You look troubled my son,” he says.

“I am Septon,” you respond after a moment’s pause, “May I ask a man of the Faith’s advice?”

“It is not my place to give you advice from my own mouth, but I may give you that of the Faith’s, speak my son.”

You give the Septon a brief overview of the past few days, a short summary of your troubles regarding the decision of marrying Lady Belissa or not. And of those thoughts that troubled you of past love.

“It is your duty as a True Knight to honor your Lord,” he says.

“And I do Septon, he has given me every blessing I now hold dear, it simply…” you search for the words, “She is pretty, and well spoken. But if I accept I do not know if I can give her happiness when my mind thinks of another. When I know that the Whitestone only knows suffering and grief. Would I not be a poor husband, unable to provide for her as I the Seven demand? And a part of me would always believe that I accepted her hand for coin, rather than devotion to the blessings of holy marriage.”

“You are a man troubled by his past Ser Landon Grallner,” the Septon begins, “You must learn to deal with these things should you ever wish to devote yourself to another again. While I will not pry upon the nature of your past indiscretions, I do know that these sins haunt you. And perhaps cloud the light that shines upon you. Seek deliverance from the Seven, their light will guide your path from sullen thoughts better left in the past. Pray to the Crone for wisdom and guidance.”

“I will Septon.”

“And as for Lady Belissa…” he licks his lips, old and cracked as they were, “The Maid is offered prayer for the safety of young women everywhere. That a young woman may find a true and good husband. I have seen many women pray here, including her. She lights candles for the Maid, but has not since her return to Strong Song from Ironoaks. Perhaps she, as you, has her mind upon another. If you do believe you can make this woman happy, if you can bring her joy in faithful and good marriage as is your duty as a man of the Faith. Then do not marry her Ser Landon. It would not be a good marriage. Nor one that the Light of the Seven shines upon should you ever doubt it. I believe you are a good man Ser Landon, trust in your Faith above all things and it will lead you to your deliverance.”

>>1911742
Yeah, this sounds good.

Also, maybe we could walk around town for some people to bring home?

Who do we need? Someone with silverworking experience would be good. Also, the lives of our smallfolk are quite poor at the moment, convincing a businessman to open an inn would be good. Or talking to a merchant about setting up a more regular trade route alongside the food deliveries.

You nod to his words, taking a deep breath and turning to the elder man, “Thank you Septon for wise and honest counsel. It is a shame I cannot have you at Whitestone Keep with me.”

“Well when you are Ser Landon, do send me a letter and I will find the very best to serve your home and hearth. I swear it upon my Faith.”

>Gained 1 Faith Point for consulting the Faith

The trip back to Strong Song is lonely and cold. Though no more than the nights in Whitestone Keep. You think upon the offer that Lord Benedar Belmore has given you, the offer that would expire tonight should you refuse. In your limited view it was a good offer, but good was no more than you would call it. A man should reach for more, fight for more if need be. Being content with good was merely being the same man that you had been for the past five years. Contented, the blindfolded warrior. Could you make the marriage more than? Perhaps, in time you could forget and devote yourself but by then she may only know the cold man that shared her bed with little passion as his mind dwelled upon another. Perhaps there would be status to be gained further down the line from such a marriage, your sons squiring in Strong Song to your friend, daughters serving as handmaidens and friends of Cador’s own children. But mayhaps it was not enough. Mayhaps you desired more in your ambitions. Your striving to improve your station. To become known through something other than what the infamy of the Butcher brought. You mind dwells upon these things even as you hand Warrior off to a stablehand, return to your quarters and prepare for the night’s feast.

The bells toll and ring as the herald calls your name for a final time, thankfully, you had learned that the bells toll three times for you majorly, with one for your name, your station as the Knight of Whitestone Keep, as Knight-Commander of the Belmore’s army, and then for your title from the Faith as Guardian which gains two smaller dings thereafter. Conversely Lord Belmore gains six major tolls, with a meddle of minor dings after his titles most of which you hardly keep up with. Again you are sat at the high table alongside him, standing with him as he toasts the room in your honor. For the continued and healthy relationship between liege and banner. And for your future as his Knight-Commander. The crowd claps, not a roar, but a polite clap and all take their drinks as he finishes, yourself included by his request. You sit while the first course is served, something light to begin, smoke oysters upon a slice of cucumber, about as fresh as they could be this time of the year, topped from pickled carrot, lemon zest, and cracked pepper and salt. Lord Belmore eats perhaps twelve of them before stopping to take a long drink and turns to you to speak.

“Ser Grallner,” he begins, “You have reignited by faith in you as my banner. I am told I am a hard man behind closed doors, one with a temper, machinations that have garnered me the whispered colloquialism of ‘the Mummer of Strong Song’, and of an unforgiving nature but I am told these things by men who seek to cross me with little understanding of consequence. When you came to me you listened to my grievances and you sought reason to rectify them. Do I find that my bannerman has become more independent of me? Yes. Does this concern me? Perhaps. But in doing these things you still serve me, you do not balk or break or bend at my commands. You take them and you do with them as you always have,” he waggles his finger at you, “That is why you are my Knight-Commander Ser Grallner. Do not forget that. And remember who you serve, I do not wish to not hear from you for months upon a time again.”

“I shan’t my Lord,” you respond with half a smile. You are happy he did not brooch the subject of Lady Belissa just yet. Thankful still when it has not been touched by the fourth course of standing rib roast. You find the cook had done a better job seasoning than the other night, less thyme, more salt and cracked pepper. The smoky garlic sliced thinly was a nice touch as well. It was served with roasted cauliflower and again you find the cook’s favorite thyme but it had been relaxed this time. Between the fourth and fifth course the musicians had begun to play and a single sung songs of both beautiful poetry and bawdy tales. You swallow hard and remembering you owed Lady Belissa a promised dance, a quick side eye tells you she is avoiding looking at you very hard but Lady Sara Fossett teases her causing her to fend her off with her hand.

See little other option as you were a man of your word, you rise, excusing yourself from Lord Benedar’s table, and go to hers offering your hand wordlessly before finding need to speak after an awkward pause, “Lady Belissa may I have this dance?”

She giggles, taking your hand daintily and stands allowing you to lead her across the table and onto the floor. Her hand find place upon your shoulder, the other held aloft in your hand, and you gingerly place your free hand just above her hip, where the curve was. Attempting to remember the steps of a lead you awkwardly shuffle about and she laughs when you step upon her foot for which you apologize profusely for.

“You are a poor dancer Ser Landon,” she says with a laugh, “I suppose it was not a thing you were taught.”

You clear your throat, and look down at your feet attempting to remember the simple waltz, “It is… Not. My sister is far better with it, and attempting to teach me so I could dance with her at her wedding. It went about as well as this.”

“Your sister sounds sweet,” she says sort of kind of taking lead away from you, and watching you with her eyes as you offer little resistance to her, “Ser, I have thought about what you asked me yesterday. If I thought we should be married, may I speak plainly?”

“Erm…” you take a poor step and she corrects, allow the two of you to swing back into step. It was not a typical thing for you to hear but all the same, as you had asked her, “Yes my Lady you may.”

“Huh,” she says surprised, “Lady Victaria thought you man to wish women to keep quiet rather than speak their mind. Suppose she misjudged you. Ser Landon I wish to be happy, to be with a man that I can or could love. As I have told you.”

You nod, half listening, half attempting to not step on her foot again.

“You are a good man, a man of the Faith, and no doubt kindly to those he loves. But I do not believe I am a woman you could love.”

You give her half a look and she lowers her eyes biting her lip.

“In truth my Lord, I am told you love another. And that she loves you. I am not a jealous woman, but to know the man I love does not care for me as much as another would ruin any hopes of a good marriage of you being a good husband. I hope I do not overstep myself Ser, but you asked and I speak frankly.”

“How…” your mind moves slowly, like honey in cold. Worry set in, had she said something, had she known all along, was that secret not so much the secret you thought it to be. The questions come and you lips only are able to utter, “How did you..?”

“Know?” she asks rather astonished, “Ser you are not a subtle man, your may think you keep your emotions and thoughts in check but you wear them upon your face when you speak to a woman. I saw the looks you gave me, they were not for me, they were for another. No gossip nor woman’s chatter. Just a man that had not forgotten someone else. And I cannot be that someone else.”

“I understand,” you respond simply.

“I do hope so Ser. Do not mistake me in saying this, what my cousin commands I shall do. If you wish to marry I will be the very best wife to you that I can be and I hope someday I am able to love you. And that you may love me back,” she breaks away as the song finishes, holding your hands in hers and smiles. She leans forward and places a soft kiss upon your cheek, whispering after, “That was so Vyell would rage.”
The two of you clap for the musicians and you return to your seat, taking it uncomfortably and wanting little to do with it at the moment. In truth a part of you wished to hit something, someone maybe. Fighting was your wheelhouse not courtship.

“My cousin seems fond of you Ser Grallner,” Belmore says, “You are more a man of courting than I thought.”

“I would not go that far,” you say almost wishing for a drink.

“Nonsense Ser, you are a handsome prospect for any young Lady of the realm, a true Knight, my dear Belissa would be so lucky to find you as her husband.”

You swirl your water wordlessly.

“I still await an answer Ser Grallner,” he says pointedly, “Either you agree to marry her now or the offer is gone. She has many other suitors, and I am sure they would jump at the chance where you did not. You could not hope for a better match Ser Grallner, unless you hold a vain hope for the Waynwood daughter.”

The Marriage Offer:
Do you wish to accept the marriage offer of Lady Belissa Belmore?
>Yay
>Nay

OH BOY HERE WE GO.

>>1912068
>>Nay
Also yay get back from work in enough time to catch the end of the thread!

>>1912068
>>Nay

>>1912068
>>Nay
My lord I would be a poor man if I did not even follow my own counsel that I gave to you about matters of the heart. As fair as Belissa is I do not know her, and with my lands in disarray I fear I lack the time to do so. Furthermore with my lands as they are I would not be able to give her the time she deserves if we were wed. I understand I need to give you an answer now, and for that reason I cannot marry her.

>>1912068
>Nay

>>1912068
>Nay
Could we make it work, yes

But Landon aspires to more than just good, he dreams of greatness, and while she is a lovely girl - she is not the woman for us.

Pros:
>Devoted woman if nothing else, will make a good wife
>Knowledge of astronomy and well learned in various matters, her love of books would bring back knowledge and learning in Whitestone Keep
>If her parents, Bryen, and Bradic are any indication she will be fertile and able to give Landon children
>Benedar will be pleased that you're playing ball fully, he knows you're loyal and are now bound by marriage, your children may someday grow to be close with Cador's own and will reap the benefits of that

Middle of the Road:
>Dowry of 3 Wealth, possibly a pro if you include the 2 Wealth waiver regarding the new trade deal, or possibly a con if you find it too low
>Of an equal status to yourself, you do not gain from this marriage but you do not lose either

Cons:
>Landon's personal misgivings, he does not like the pressure of it, he does not like that, in essence, he is taking a bribe to marry her on the side
>Belissa knows you are not entirely there, where she would grow to love and care for Landon he would remain cold and distant until he dealt with his personal problems, an unlikely thing for him and thus the marriage would suffer
>Outside of her learnedness she brings very little to the table, she would be a fine wife, but her personal hobbies and interests do little to better your house

If anyone is wondering what my personal opinion on the pros and cons of this marriage are.

>>1912106
Its a shame it must be a nay. FOr she is a lovely woman who deserve happiness.

>>1912068
Its unfortunate because i like the character but I must also vote NAY

>>1912068
Nay

It's a shame because I think she's a good person. But she's a tool to use Landon and I know he isn't about that. And Dad I swear to god if you make her suffer like Giselle I'll never forgive you. Belissa deserves happiness.

>>1912068
If there's no hail Mary option to stall, which really wouldn't be in Landon's style anyway, then I'll have to agree with Anon on this one.

>Nay

I just hope that we're not shackling ourselves to a future bride who hates/uses us. I really want Landon to finally have that one bastion that won't turn on him. Someone whos loyalty he never has to wonder about, and I think Belissa would have brought that.

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I personally say yay but unfortunately I think Landon would be a...
>nay

Even without the political pressuring from Lord Bellend, with that conversation we had with the septon and this recent update from belissa I dont think Landon could say yes in good faith. Looks like we have to go lay the beat down on some plebs and win Miss Waynewood's hand.

>>1912167
From these last couple of updates I'm suspecting that we're also going to have to confront or get over our paramour to even be able to compete for her in good faith.

>>1912177
Yeah but who is she? There was discussion earlier about her having to be a step above the common camp follower because she can read, not to mention the silver bell. The symbolism points to some connection to Belmore but there hasnt been any mention of it from anyone else.

And so a reluctant nay it shall be.

I see this as playing the character very well. So I applaud that. Landon not trying to dilpomancer himself into having more time to decide is a good portrayal of the character as well. So there isn't a punishment here, other than losing what could be your second best option? But that's the nature of the game, you take risks and you roll with them. And some of you know how I run my games.

>>1912133
Hahaha I won't. Much. When she was talking about him loving someone else she was just as much talking about her herself. The Septon alluded to this as well, but her heart is still set upon Ser Donnell Waynwood. Perhaps Landon can help that. Or let her end up with someone beneath her station who Landon dislikes, Ser Vyell Vyvyan.

>>1912166
It's a shame because perhaps she could have been.

>>1912167
That is what it was in the end. A conflict of Faith in many regards. So the character was played as well as he could be in such a difficult position.

All of that being said, you'll still need to roll to mitigate damage, Landon's actions throughout the visit have helped to make Belmore more amiable but he really wanted Landon to say yes. So...

>Please roll 3d6 for Persuasion(Convince).
Taking Bo3.