((BTW I'm rejoining this game as Count Patrick Montague.))
((Of?))
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((Of?))
((BTW I'm rejoining this game as Count Patrick Montague.
((Count of?????? Maybe you want to actually talk with sneaky before doing stuff like this, or actually post IC about it or something....))
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((I think he is just a little upset that he has been in the game pretty much since the start without a county, yet these people that are just now joining are getting to start with landed titles.))
Edited in to avoid double post ((Seeing as he has been active in the game despite not having a county I would say that he is deserving of one. It might not make too much sense IC, but neither does three new counts appearing out of nowhere. At the very least if another county opens up he should be given the opportunity to scrap his character and create a new one.))
Edited in to avoid double post ((Seeing as he has been active in the game despite not having a county I would say that he is deserving of one. It might not make too much sense IC, but neither does three new counts appearing out of nowhere. At the very least if another county opens up he should be given the opportunity to scrap his character and create a new one.))
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Correspondence between Count Tybolt Starborn and his father...
My dear Father,
I know you will be angry when you read this, judging by the course words with which we last spoke. Nevertheless, I must restate my position. Father, I beg you, do not go through with this.
Daggerfall needs you. I cannot do this alone, I scarcely know how. All my life it was to be Bartro who was to rule. Such care and attentiveness was directed to him, while I, was made known to be insignificant. After the worst happened, suddenly the weight of responsibility was thrust upon me, and it crushes me so, father!
A monk? Is that how you seek to end your days? Bent over a dusty old tome as the self-righteous men of the church drone on? I cannot see it, father. Foolish this is! Yes, I will not hold my tongue any longer. You empty your treasury, push me onto your chair and say 'fix it.'
How can I? Patros damn you, father! Help me! I don't know what I'm doing. I never wanted this responsibility. Sumner hounds me incessantly on the pursuit of the dutchy, but I cannot be duke? And if I remain a Count? What of the Scythesons? The Buntry's? The Westgates? The Hawthorns? They all will sniff out my weaknesses, I know it! I will be overthrown, drawn and quartered. There is only one thing that will save me from such a fate. Come back, if only for a little while. Teach me, Father. Teach me the lessons you never have, so keen on ignoring me entirely.
End this foolishness and return home - or at the very least, seek a position here in Daggerfall, in Swordstone.
This is madness. The other lords do not respect this play of yours, they mock you. I know they do.
Come home. Come home!
~Tybolt.
Tybolt,
You are a Count of Daggerfall now, try and act like it. I have tried to teach you all I can, but you never listened. Do not push all blame on me, my boy.
Listen to the counsel of your advisors, heed their advice. They are good men all, and are there to help you. Do not let Sumner push you around. Take a stand with the boy, you are his father after all.
And for the sake of Patros, be a man. Be a Lord. Put quill to paper and announce your new station, and announce it proudly, with strength and conviction. You are a Starborn!
Continue our good relations with the Houses Artageth and Rowney's. They are honourable houses. Beware of the Scythesons. Stephen is a good man, but I am wary of his son, Lyle.
You have a talent for diplomacy, my son. You may fail to see it, and it is a skill you neglect too often, but I have seen it. Nurture that ability, train yourself for a golden tongue and you will find that you can bend the will of men to obey and to follow.
Write me whenever you need me, but no more dramatics. Cease the role of suckling babe, or lead all of Daggerfall to ruin.
~Sumner Starborn.
My dear Father,
I know you will be angry when you read this, judging by the course words with which we last spoke. Nevertheless, I must restate my position. Father, I beg you, do not go through with this.
Daggerfall needs you. I cannot do this alone, I scarcely know how. All my life it was to be Bartro who was to rule. Such care and attentiveness was directed to him, while I, was made known to be insignificant. After the worst happened, suddenly the weight of responsibility was thrust upon me, and it crushes me so, father!
A monk? Is that how you seek to end your days? Bent over a dusty old tome as the self-righteous men of the church drone on? I cannot see it, father. Foolish this is! Yes, I will not hold my tongue any longer. You empty your treasury, push me onto your chair and say 'fix it.'
How can I? Patros damn you, father! Help me! I don't know what I'm doing. I never wanted this responsibility. Sumner hounds me incessantly on the pursuit of the dutchy, but I cannot be duke? And if I remain a Count? What of the Scythesons? The Buntry's? The Westgates? The Hawthorns? They all will sniff out my weaknesses, I know it! I will be overthrown, drawn and quartered. There is only one thing that will save me from such a fate. Come back, if only for a little while. Teach me, Father. Teach me the lessons you never have, so keen on ignoring me entirely.
End this foolishness and return home - or at the very least, seek a position here in Daggerfall, in Swordstone.
This is madness. The other lords do not respect this play of yours, they mock you. I know they do.
Come home. Come home!
~Tybolt.
Tybolt,
You are a Count of Daggerfall now, try and act like it. I have tried to teach you all I can, but you never listened. Do not push all blame on me, my boy.
Listen to the counsel of your advisors, heed their advice. They are good men all, and are there to help you. Do not let Sumner push you around. Take a stand with the boy, you are his father after all.
And for the sake of Patros, be a man. Be a Lord. Put quill to paper and announce your new station, and announce it proudly, with strength and conviction. You are a Starborn!
Continue our good relations with the Houses Artageth and Rowney's. They are honourable houses. Beware of the Scythesons. Stephen is a good man, but I am wary of his son, Lyle.
You have a talent for diplomacy, my son. You may fail to see it, and it is a skill you neglect too often, but I have seen it. Nurture that ability, train yourself for a golden tongue and you will find that you can bend the will of men to obey and to follow.
Write me whenever you need me, but no more dramatics. Cease the role of suckling babe, or lead all of Daggerfall to ruin.
~Sumner Starborn.
A letter to Lord Louis III Gardnier de la Mont Blanc, Count of Fleurs and Marquess of the White Mountain:
Loyalty must be paid in blood
Dear Lord Gardnier,
I apologize for the rather distasteful reaction of my citizens to your missionary. I'm afraid it seems that the populace is not quite ready to embrace the true faith. On a more pleasant note, I couldn't help but notice that your young son Basile remains unbetrothed . So, to solidify the alliance between the followers of Kekism I propose a betrothal between him and my daughter Abigail. She is the kindest and most beautiful of my children and I think she would make a fine bride and pleasant addition to your court.
Good Tidings,
The Honorable Sir Lord Luke Somme-Chevalier the Rose Knight, Count of Pilarch, Hammer of Kekism, Dread of all those who oppose His Majesty King Edward _______
An Open Letter to the Lords of Mivean, from Count Tybolt of Daggerfall...
House Starborn
Honour. Duty. Strength.
My Lords of Mivean,
Peace and prosperity to you all. I confess my writing hand meets this parchment with some hesitation. The rule of Daggerfall falls on me, after my Lord-Father's abdication. Count Sumner is a great man, and his rule was benign and just. For nearly forty years he ruled this county, and all our subjects took comfort in his shadow. As I take the reins, his shadow looms still, and I suspect it always will.
It is my intent to rule Daggerfall as he did, valuing justice, honour, the word of God, and our friends. My father swore my daughter to the son of Count Peregrine Artageth, and I proclaim here and now, before God and Men, that the marriage of my daughter Telgi and the heir of Artageth, Averill of Artageth shall commence in six months time. Our trade partnership with The Shield, under honour-bound contract with House Rowney shall continue unabated, bringing prosperity to all parties. Finally, our sworn service and fealty to King Edward shall be upheld in the highest regard, second only to God. The word of Starborn is as unyielding as stone, as my late mother used to say, and I intent to uphold the integrity of mine House and people.
May God bless you all.
~Tybolt Starborn.
Count of Daggerfall.
House Starborn
Honour. Duty. Strength.
My Lords of Mivean,
Peace and prosperity to you all. I confess my writing hand meets this parchment with some hesitation. The rule of Daggerfall falls on me, after my Lord-Father's abdication. Count Sumner is a great man, and his rule was benign and just. For nearly forty years he ruled this county, and all our subjects took comfort in his shadow. As I take the reins, his shadow looms still, and I suspect it always will.
It is my intent to rule Daggerfall as he did, valuing justice, honour, the word of God, and our friends. My father swore my daughter to the son of Count Peregrine Artageth, and I proclaim here and now, before God and Men, that the marriage of my daughter Telgi and the heir of Artageth, Averill of Artageth shall commence in six months time. Our trade partnership with The Shield, under honour-bound contract with House Rowney shall continue unabated, bringing prosperity to all parties. Finally, our sworn service and fealty to King Edward shall be upheld in the highest regard, second only to God. The word of Starborn is as unyielding as stone, as my late mother used to say, and I intent to uphold the integrity of mine House and people.
May God bless you all.
~Tybolt Starborn.
Count of Daggerfall.
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Open Letter to House Starborn
Courage. Honor. Temperance.
To House Starborn and Daggerfall,
While we voice a sense of forlorn for the abdication of Count Sumner, we extend our hand in congratulations to Tybolt Starborn as the new ruler of the realm of Daggerfall and to the marriage of his daughter Telgi Starborn. The House of Rowney along with the entirety of the Duchy of the Shield is pleased that our trade relations will remain unhindered and unabated. As with the father, we are with the son in pledging our continued friendship to House Starborn. We invite the new Count to the Duchy of the Shield, an open invitation to be taken whenever he wishes in addition to extending it to his family as well. May our relations become strengthened. May his rule be strong and just.
~ Loudamere Rowney, Duke of the Duchy of the Shield
Courage. Honor. Temperance.
To House Starborn and Daggerfall,
While we voice a sense of forlorn for the abdication of Count Sumner, we extend our hand in congratulations to Tybolt Starborn as the new ruler of the realm of Daggerfall and to the marriage of his daughter Telgi Starborn. The House of Rowney along with the entirety of the Duchy of the Shield is pleased that our trade relations will remain unhindered and unabated. As with the father, we are with the son in pledging our continued friendship to House Starborn. We invite the new Count to the Duchy of the Shield, an open invitation to be taken whenever he wishes in addition to extending it to his family as well. May our relations become strengthened. May his rule be strong and just.
~ Loudamere Rowney, Duke of the Duchy of the Shield
Lydes
Lydes, sometimes referred to as The Floating City, is a prominent trade city located along Mivian’s northern coast. The Pianta River, which flows from the south, splits the city into a series of small, island like segments. These islands are traversed by barges and gondolas by canal and an elaborate network of bridges by land.
Like most cities, Lydes is split into districts, though the physical separation of the islands makes these divisions more rigid than in most other places. And like all cities, Lydes has luxurious parts where the full splendor of the city’s wealth can be seen, and poor parts where people struggle to get by. The former is mostly found on the eastern side of the city in South Corner, the Catenza District, Sovereign’s Lane, and especially the Sezricco District, while the latter is found to the west in places like The Pot, The Narrows, and The Whispers, as well as along the docks. While poverty isn’t limited to those districts, the further one gets from them, the more likely they are to have some level of wealth.
Sovereign’s Lane is said to be one of the oldest financial districts on the continent, and houses a multitude of countinghouses and offices to back up the claim, as well as several upper class shops and elaborate manors. During the days of the Lydes free city, before the Remaches came to power, it was known as the heart of the city’s power, where one could meet with the head of one of the five banking families.
The nearby Catenza District is a comfortable part of the city as well, though to a lesser degree. The district is clean, spacious, and well patrolled by the city watch. The islands of the district vary in purpose, some being places of business with busy markets, while others primarily consist of multi-floored stone apartments and rooftop gardens. It’s shops are mainly owned by well-established merchants that no longer need to face the Water Market.
The South Corner is a newer part of the city, occupied mainly by wealthy immigrants. Traders who plan to be in Lydes on business for extended stays often rent rooms at inns in this district. Additionally, many businesses from foreign cities set up shop here.
The Water Market is a unique feature to Lydes, and is often packed with hundreds of merchants who sell their wares directly off of barges. Most merhcants working at the market see it as a stepping stone to one day owning a shop in a district like the Catenza. Many say that there’s nothing that can’t be bought at the Water Market.
Dockside is, unsurprisingly, the main place for merchants and travelers to dock when they arrive in Lydes. From here their goods can easily be sent up one of the canals to wherever it is that they are going. The Arsenal District is home to the city’s navy and most of its war supplies, in addition to being well fortified and boasting several cannons that point out to sea. Old Harbor has only recently begun to see steady use again due to the spike in trade with the Trivian City States facilitated by Léon Remache. To the west of Old Harbor is the Graveyard, a sheltered bay that acts as a ship graveyard, though occasionally ships with business in the poorer parts of Lydes will dock there as well.
Just to the south of Old Harbor sits Old Castle, an impressively fortified island was the seat of power for the Strategos centuries ago. Now it is the home to the city watch, perfectly located to allow for a quick response to danger in any district.
The Temple District is something of an oddity in the Kingdom of Miviain in that it is home not only to grand cathedrals of the Church of Iliothos, but also to temples and holy-places for a handful of other religions as well. This exists mainly as a matter of practicality as the city’s merchant families have always cared more for gold than god, and the gold heathens and heretics is worth just as much as that of Patros himself.
Continuing west from the Temple District, one would find themselves in the Golden Green, an open park that is well tended and under constant patrols by the watch. Conversely, the Copper Green, found on the poor side of town is sometimes described as being ‘openly dangerous’ and has nearly as many weeds as it does flowers.
Towards the far south of the city, on the other side of the Pianta, is the Sezricco District, home to the minor nobility of Lydes as well as its wealthiest merchants. Should a member of the watch allow you to enter the district you would find yourself surrounded by walled gardens full of rare plants, well-crafted sculptures and fountains, and bright white villas. Due to its position on the other side of the Pianta and thus, its higher elevation, the Sezricco District looks down on the rest of the city, only outdone by the Remache Estate which sits even higher on the opposite side of the canal, looking down on all.
The Narrows is the transition point from good to bad in Lydes. It is a labyrinth of apartment buildings and small, second-hand shops, but for the most part it is clean and still enjoys the safety provided by patrols of the city watch. Past The Narrows is The Whispers, which can only be described as poverty-stricken.
The Pot is likely the worst part of Lydes. Some argue that the name comes from the way the island sinks towards the middle, giving it an appearance not totally unlike a pot, while others say it comes from the claim that the place is a melting pot for all the bad parts of the city come together. It is cramped, dirty, and stinking, and even the watch will only enter it well-armed and in force.
The city also has two graveyards, Beggar’s Hill and Patros Hill. Beggar’s Hill is the burial place of the common, lower class citizens of Lydes, while Patros Hill, just a short walk from the Catenza or the Temple Districts, is where the city’s upper class is buried, with some exceptions.
To all nobles of the realm
I am honored to announce the coming marriage of myself and Marie of Lazuli. The ceremony is set to take place on the full moon following the harvest moon in the city of Port Arthur. In addition to the traditional wedding ceremony, there will also be a week long outdoor festival to celebrate the marriage as well as the successful harvest. The festival will include music, beer,farmers markets, beer, dancing, beer, exotic vendors, beer, agricultural shows, beer, jousting, and of course beer. I invite all nobles of Minivan to come attend the festivities, as well as any merchants from foreign counties looking to promote their goods. What better way for a county to show off it's produce than to display at this major festival within the kingdom!
I am honored to announce the coming marriage of myself and Marie of Lazuli. The ceremony is set to take place on the full moon following the harvest moon in the city of Port Arthur. In addition to the traditional wedding ceremony, there will also be a week long outdoor festival to celebrate the marriage as well as the successful harvest. The festival will include music, beer,farmers markets, beer, dancing, beer, exotic vendors, beer, agricultural shows, beer, jousting, and of course beer. I invite all nobles of Minivan to come attend the festivities, as well as any merchants from foreign counties looking to promote their goods. What better way for a county to show off it's produce than to display at this major festival within the kingdom!
A Formal Agreement between lords Duke Edwin Van Maylfwick and Lord Hayden
[X] Signed Duke Edwin Van Maylfwick
[] Lord Hayden
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The Immediate family of Gustaf von Eisenwier, the head of the Eisenwier family.
Gustaf von Eisenwier has been very unlcuky in getting two daughters and only one son who in turn have gotten a lot of daughters themselves. The current line of succession is Johannus von Eisenwier and Leif von Eisnwier-Treueblut. However Sabine von Eisenwier the mother of Leif is married to the captain of the Edelknechten. Sivard von Treueblut is a lower noble and his family has served the Eisenwier for several generations. Gustaf's hope is that Johannus wife Gretzel performs her duty and sires a healthy boy.
Tanja is maried to Bjorn von Hozhwelf, a prominent noble from the city of Eben. Her two daughters of course wear the Hozhwelf name. Hortio von Eisenwier, the brother of Gustaf traveled to the capital of the Kingdom and joined the royal army seeking fame and glory. This of course was against Gustaf's parents wishes and was thus disinherited. Gustaf and his family still does not know what happened to Hortio or if he even settled down to have a family.
We had set off on our way to the Duke of Gold Field once more. It had been a few weeks since we had spoken, though it was still clearly in my mind and I had barely been able not to think about it in the last few weeks.
With me I had taken a few guards, a supply wagon for the long road ahead, Michael and Ebing Harl. It turned out this might not had been a particularly good idea, as soon as we crossed the river Plait we were halted by one of the border patrols. As I stated to them I had business with the Duke of Gold Field and let us on our way, however they did warn us we might be stopped more often, there had been a massive increase in border patrols on the Aruthian side of the border, the Emperor seemed afraid of something.
This hadn't been the only problem however, passing the Shiny Mountains had taken nearly a week in itself, our wagon having broken down about five times on its rough paths, as well as being stopped more often by other patrols, as we were warned to be. I had started wondering what could've happened between my last visit and now, as the amount of patrols were near petrifying, it was difficult to even sleep without feeling watched.
''Wake up!''
A coarse voice yelled at us, waking us all up, our watch never even warned us as he fell asleep as well, sadly.
''State your business in the Empire.''
The same voice had spoken, my eyes hadn't adjusted to the dark yet, all I could see was some vague figures and a fuzzy orange light from the campfire.
''I am David Sommet, count of the Lower Plait, we are on our way to Duke Louis, as he has invited us.''
''Is that so?'' His face came close enough to mine now for me to see. He was a bulky man, on his shield he had with him there was a device I couldn't immidiatelly recognize, but I took it for one of the Aruthian lords.
''I heard you Sommets are quite rich, maybe if you our toll we might let you continue on your way.''
''Do you think your lord would be happy if he'd hear your plucking money away, as instead you should be guarding the border?'' There was always corruption anywhere, I should know most of all, and these folk were no exception to the matter.
''And how'd you suppose to get word out to my lord if I'd strike you down right here and now, you Mivian scum.''
I eyed around the camp, weirdly these 'patrolmen' weren't even outnumbering us, yet were threatening us. I saw Michael cowering together with the other servants, they were all to young to do anything though. I saw Ebing Harl and other sergeants just waking up at sword point as well, they seemed a bit more calm however.
''And how would you be able to hide the evidence, once you kill us you'll know it will cost your head, is the gold really worth your life?''
His scarred smile turned into a scarred frown, the other men started looking at him for just a second, a second which was enough for us to turn this onto them, as my men seemed to realize near as quickly as I had.
Before the patrol group knew it I had their 'leader' pinned, I had tackled him and already had my rapier to hand, now he was the one held down at sword point, there were a few fights going on here and there, however they were also soon dealth with by my men.
''I do not wish any of your men dead, I am strictly here on business with Duke Louis, we will allow you to walk away and we won't mention a word to your lord.''
''Can't we just kill them?'' One of my men asked, a squire it seemed, so I chose to best ignore what he had said.
''Okay, we yield and we shall be gone.'' The coarseness of the mans voice had turned to a near squeak.
After getting through the mountains there was still days worth of travel before us, mainly through the plains, we passed a few small towns and villages as well, however we decided to stay out of them for the most part to avoid any problems, we didn't know how well Mivians were liked down here, but by a few looks we had gotten on the road it didn't seem they liked us at all. It had reminded me of the patrol soon enough. The closer and closer we came to the Duke's seat the more and more guarded the roads became as well, I knew the Aruthians were at war with the Trivian city states, and yet at the same time they have enough men to defend themselves as well, it was a petrifying thought in my head to know how much power they actually had.
The days went by very quick luckily, we had reached the Dukes seat, nearly. As we stood before the gates one of many guardsman spoke up.
''State your business in Laviell or leave.''
''I am David Sommet, count of the Lower Plait, here to converse with Duke Louis in private.''
I heard some mumbling from the guard before the gate was opened. The gate itself had taken quite a while to open as the size of it was massive, this city was often boasted to be one of the biggest cities in the Empire, with its wall protecting the elite of the city but the commoners themselves having spread the city in such a manner that it covered miles. The only reason this had been possible for Laviell in the first place was because of it's fast tracks of agricultured lands, it basically being the Cowen of the Aruthian Empire.
As we moved past the the walls we walked upon the main road toward the Duke's castle in the middle of it all. He seemed to have expected us as the main road was filled with guards as well as seemingly every other road around the city, there were a few nobles and wealthy merchants who came to see what all the fuss was about, except from some servants there were no other commoners actually within the walls, as they all lived around it instead. We walked past numerous expensive shops, where the elite could only buy the best of the best, we walked past numerous big mansions as well, most belonging to merchants however also few belonging to the richests of knights, the only constant was that all the buildings had guards, their own guards but every single one was guarded.
Just before the castle stood the Duke, together with his own envoy of even more guards, I was told to leave my company under protection of his guards, they would be well served during my stay.
''It is nice to meet with you again Lord Sommet, it is good you came, we have lots to discuss.''
He looked quite pleased with my visit.
''Same to you Lord Plagnet, it does indeed seem we have a lot to discuss.''
He held his hand out, I shook it just before we went inside, it was a costum in the Empire to shake ones hand to promise protection under the hosts roof, Patros knew I needed that, the thought of the Blackgate massacre still haunted me some days.
We made our way into his castle entering its big halls, there were banners hanging everywhere, with the sigil of the Plagnets, wheat upon fields of quartered red and blue squares. It was one of the less creative sigils in the realm, but it suited the area and the lord. The hall was near cathedral-like long it seemed, with the ceiling also reminding of a cathedral at the same time. From it hung a lot of chandeliers, all with candles burning, though as it was day enough light shone from the outside through the windows. We made our way to his main hall it seemed at first, but we had kept going passed that as well, not saying a word as we kept moving. We stopped in the middle of one of the halls suddenly, as he seemed to look for something and soon had found it, something I though only happened in childrens stories, a hidden door, obscured from normal view at least, blend in with the castle's own cobblestone walls. He sent his guards down the halls to patrol as he closed the door once again, only leaving me and the Duke within this room.
''Sorry for all this secrecy, I feel it might be needed however, word had already seemed to get out about our meet-up in the first place, better safe than sorry.''
He led me to the table we'd be discussing these matters at, the room was relatively dark, it had only small slits instead of windows and a few candles upon the table, it didn't seem to have been used for discussions only, especially as it was this secretive.
''I understand, I think on my way here we have attracted more than enough unwanted attention, the locals didn't seem very overjoyed with our group of travellers.''
We both sat down at the table, opposite from eachother, he kept his eyes on me at all times, he seemed to be a friendly man, though wary as well, which I couldn't really blame him for during these times.
''Let's get to business, I hope you recall what we had previously spoken about Lord Sommet.''
''I remember, yes, keeping the peace between the Kingdom and the Empire, that was our last point of conversation.''
''Exactly, I have written down terms and points to these that you might put your eyes upon, read it through carefully.''
Before me he lay his letter, it read the following;
The Duke was still looking at me with his blue focused eyes. Any failure to this treaty could lead us into war is what the treaty was basically saying, at least that is the way the Duke had seemingly written it. I had little choice however, I need peace between the Kingdom and Empire for trade, for the safety of my family... my kids, my brother's son... I need safety for our realm.
''I will sign it.''
The Duke put a quill and ink next to me and started melting up the wax. I picked up the quill and slowly dipped it into the ink as I thought of what I was doing...
''It is for the best of our interests to keep the peace lord Sommet, I hope you understand that.''
''I do, it is only benefitting both of us, both of the realms.''
I noticed the Duke seemed quite content with the situation, he only wants the peace between our two realms, though I do wonder why he would want it, seeing at the Empire has a near unending amount of men, even along the roads.
''I will allow you and your men to stay in Laviell a few nights, it would probably be best as I will give my vassals the notice to call their men back from the border, it might give you some easier travelling.''
''That would be for the best, yes. I will be spending my time with my men, if there is anything else which you would like to discuss I'd happily oblige.''
''Nothing comes up at the moment Lord Sommet.''
He led us out of his strange room back to the halls of the castle, the guards were still patrolling the halls until they had seen us and quickly joined up again. The Duke and his guards let me out of the castle to where they had my men staying, Michael, Ebing and all the rest, most of them sleeping by now as it had turned into night, and we didn't have too much sleep during our way here.
Luckily the way back home should soon no longer be a problem.
Whispers in the Kingdom
David Sommet has signed a treaty with the Duke of Gold's Field, in order to keep the Mivian Kingdom in peace with the Aruthian Empire
With me I had taken a few guards, a supply wagon for the long road ahead, Michael and Ebing Harl. It turned out this might not had been a particularly good idea, as soon as we crossed the river Plait we were halted by one of the border patrols. As I stated to them I had business with the Duke of Gold Field and let us on our way, however they did warn us we might be stopped more often, there had been a massive increase in border patrols on the Aruthian side of the border, the Emperor seemed afraid of something.
This hadn't been the only problem however, passing the Shiny Mountains had taken nearly a week in itself, our wagon having broken down about five times on its rough paths, as well as being stopped more often by other patrols, as we were warned to be. I had started wondering what could've happened between my last visit and now, as the amount of patrols were near petrifying, it was difficult to even sleep without feeling watched.
''Wake up!''
A coarse voice yelled at us, waking us all up, our watch never even warned us as he fell asleep as well, sadly.
''State your business in the Empire.''
The same voice had spoken, my eyes hadn't adjusted to the dark yet, all I could see was some vague figures and a fuzzy orange light from the campfire.
''I am David Sommet, count of the Lower Plait, we are on our way to Duke Louis, as he has invited us.''
''Is that so?'' His face came close enough to mine now for me to see. He was a bulky man, on his shield he had with him there was a device I couldn't immidiatelly recognize, but I took it for one of the Aruthian lords.
''I heard you Sommets are quite rich, maybe if you our toll we might let you continue on your way.''
''Do you think your lord would be happy if he'd hear your plucking money away, as instead you should be guarding the border?'' There was always corruption anywhere, I should know most of all, and these folk were no exception to the matter.
''And how'd you suppose to get word out to my lord if I'd strike you down right here and now, you Mivian scum.''
I eyed around the camp, weirdly these 'patrolmen' weren't even outnumbering us, yet were threatening us. I saw Michael cowering together with the other servants, they were all to young to do anything though. I saw Ebing Harl and other sergeants just waking up at sword point as well, they seemed a bit more calm however.
''And how would you be able to hide the evidence, once you kill us you'll know it will cost your head, is the gold really worth your life?''
His scarred smile turned into a scarred frown, the other men started looking at him for just a second, a second which was enough for us to turn this onto them, as my men seemed to realize near as quickly as I had.
Before the patrol group knew it I had their 'leader' pinned, I had tackled him and already had my rapier to hand, now he was the one held down at sword point, there were a few fights going on here and there, however they were also soon dealth with by my men.
''I do not wish any of your men dead, I am strictly here on business with Duke Louis, we will allow you to walk away and we won't mention a word to your lord.''
''Can't we just kill them?'' One of my men asked, a squire it seemed, so I chose to best ignore what he had said.
''Okay, we yield and we shall be gone.'' The coarseness of the mans voice had turned to a near squeak.
After getting through the mountains there was still days worth of travel before us, mainly through the plains, we passed a few small towns and villages as well, however we decided to stay out of them for the most part to avoid any problems, we didn't know how well Mivians were liked down here, but by a few looks we had gotten on the road it didn't seem they liked us at all. It had reminded me of the patrol soon enough. The closer and closer we came to the Duke's seat the more and more guarded the roads became as well, I knew the Aruthians were at war with the Trivian city states, and yet at the same time they have enough men to defend themselves as well, it was a petrifying thought in my head to know how much power they actually had.
The days went by very quick luckily, we had reached the Dukes seat, nearly. As we stood before the gates one of many guardsman spoke up.
''State your business in Laviell or leave.''
''I am David Sommet, count of the Lower Plait, here to converse with Duke Louis in private.''
I heard some mumbling from the guard before the gate was opened. The gate itself had taken quite a while to open as the size of it was massive, this city was often boasted to be one of the biggest cities in the Empire, with its wall protecting the elite of the city but the commoners themselves having spread the city in such a manner that it covered miles. The only reason this had been possible for Laviell in the first place was because of it's fast tracks of agricultured lands, it basically being the Cowen of the Aruthian Empire.
As we moved past the the walls we walked upon the main road toward the Duke's castle in the middle of it all. He seemed to have expected us as the main road was filled with guards as well as seemingly every other road around the city, there were a few nobles and wealthy merchants who came to see what all the fuss was about, except from some servants there were no other commoners actually within the walls, as they all lived around it instead. We walked past numerous expensive shops, where the elite could only buy the best of the best, we walked past numerous big mansions as well, most belonging to merchants however also few belonging to the richests of knights, the only constant was that all the buildings had guards, their own guards but every single one was guarded.
Just before the castle stood the Duke, together with his own envoy of even more guards, I was told to leave my company under protection of his guards, they would be well served during my stay.
''It is nice to meet with you again Lord Sommet, it is good you came, we have lots to discuss.''
He looked quite pleased with my visit.
''Same to you Lord Plagnet, it does indeed seem we have a lot to discuss.''
He held his hand out, I shook it just before we went inside, it was a costum in the Empire to shake ones hand to promise protection under the hosts roof, Patros knew I needed that, the thought of the Blackgate massacre still haunted me some days.
We made our way into his castle entering its big halls, there were banners hanging everywhere, with the sigil of the Plagnets, wheat upon fields of quartered red and blue squares. It was one of the less creative sigils in the realm, but it suited the area and the lord. The hall was near cathedral-like long it seemed, with the ceiling also reminding of a cathedral at the same time. From it hung a lot of chandeliers, all with candles burning, though as it was day enough light shone from the outside through the windows. We made our way to his main hall it seemed at first, but we had kept going passed that as well, not saying a word as we kept moving. We stopped in the middle of one of the halls suddenly, as he seemed to look for something and soon had found it, something I though only happened in childrens stories, a hidden door, obscured from normal view at least, blend in with the castle's own cobblestone walls. He sent his guards down the halls to patrol as he closed the door once again, only leaving me and the Duke within this room.
''Sorry for all this secrecy, I feel it might be needed however, word had already seemed to get out about our meet-up in the first place, better safe than sorry.''
He led me to the table we'd be discussing these matters at, the room was relatively dark, it had only small slits instead of windows and a few candles upon the table, it didn't seem to have been used for discussions only, especially as it was this secretive.
''I understand, I think on my way here we have attracted more than enough unwanted attention, the locals didn't seem very overjoyed with our group of travellers.''
We both sat down at the table, opposite from eachother, he kept his eyes on me at all times, he seemed to be a friendly man, though wary as well, which I couldn't really blame him for during these times.
''Let's get to business, I hope you recall what we had previously spoken about Lord Sommet.''
''I remember, yes, keeping the peace between the Kingdom and the Empire, that was our last point of conversation.''
''Exactly, I have written down terms and points to these that you might put your eyes upon, read it through carefully.''
Before me he lay his letter, it read the following;
The Duke was still looking at me with his blue focused eyes. Any failure to this treaty could lead us into war is what the treaty was basically saying, at least that is the way the Duke had seemingly written it. I had little choice however, I need peace between the Kingdom and Empire for trade, for the safety of my family... my kids, my brother's son... I need safety for our realm.
''I will sign it.''
The Duke put a quill and ink next to me and started melting up the wax. I picked up the quill and slowly dipped it into the ink as I thought of what I was doing...
The wax was molten by now and put upon the treaty by the Duke. He handed me my own seal as he had his own in his hand already. Before I had even though about it the treaty was done, I was chained to it now.
''It is for the best of our interests to keep the peace lord Sommet, I hope you understand that.''
''I do, it is only benefitting both of us, both of the realms.''
I noticed the Duke seemed quite content with the situation, he only wants the peace between our two realms, though I do wonder why he would want it, seeing at the Empire has a near unending amount of men, even along the roads.
''I will allow you and your men to stay in Laviell a few nights, it would probably be best as I will give my vassals the notice to call their men back from the border, it might give you some easier travelling.''
''That would be for the best, yes. I will be spending my time with my men, if there is anything else which you would like to discuss I'd happily oblige.''
''Nothing comes up at the moment Lord Sommet.''
He led us out of his strange room back to the halls of the castle, the guards were still patrolling the halls until they had seen us and quickly joined up again. The Duke and his guards let me out of the castle to where they had my men staying, Michael, Ebing and all the rest, most of them sleeping by now as it had turned into night, and we didn't have too much sleep during our way here.
Luckily the way back home should soon no longer be a problem.
Whispers in the Kingdom
David Sommet has signed a treaty with the Duke of Gold's Field, in order to keep the Mivian Kingdom in peace with the Aruthian Empire
A Formal Agreement between lords Duke Edwin Van Maylfwick and Lord Hayden
[X] Signed Duke Edwin Van Maylfwick
[] Lord Hayden
[X] Norris Hayden, Count of Caillaux
A Declaration From the Count of Aksarben
In anticipation of the upcoming wedding between myself and Marie of Lazulli and King Edward's arrival, I am pleased to announce details of the festivities. With the wedding fast approaching the deadline to RSVP will be Thursday October 9th at 11:59PM Copenhagen time (the mystery of Denmark has long plagued our scholars, despite the fact that it somehow controls the concept of time, as well as our entire universe).
Day 1- The wedding ceremony will take place inside the Royal Castle of Round Rock on the first clear day following the end of the harvest season. The wedding itself will be a fairly small ceremony, with only a few honored guests, including the king, and several other invited nobles, allowed inside. While the upcoming festival will be one of lavishness and festivity, the ceremony would remain temperate and spiritual in nature. After the exchanging of the vows the newly wed couple will headline a parade towards a nearby clearing which would serve as the fair grounds. The count will introduce his wife for the first time and officially announce the marriage as well as the completion of the harvest, signifying the start of the festival. The rest of the day would simply be a day of celebration, with music, dancing, plenty of food, and socialization.
Day 2- The second day will begin with the first rounds of jousting as well as an agricultural exhibition. Farmers from Aksarben, as well as other areas of Mivian, will compete to see who has the largest, and best quality produce in the land. Following the agricultural show, a cook off and brew off will commence. For the rest of the day, guests will spend their time eating, drinking, and socializing. At the end of the day those who are still on their feet will vote on the top five flavors of beer to be eligible for the top prize. Brewers that do not make the cut will be allowed to stay at the festival and sell their beer, but they won't be eligible for the prize.
Day 3- The second round of jousting will begin, as well as the first horse races and animal exhibitions. Later in the day merchants will showcase their exotic wares and a variety of competitions for handcrafted goods will take place. In the afternoon an archery contest will take place, including the best archers from the local leviees as well as any other professional hunter or archer within the kingdom who isn't drunk. At nightfall, musicians will begin playing until late at night.
Day 4- Day four will really be a make up day in case of bad weather canceling any earlier events. Merchants would still sell their goods and everything, however the schedule will be kept light in terms of events. The semi finals of jousting will take place, as well as some friendly jousts between those who have been eliminated. A panel of nine judges will also be conceived later in the day to vote on the best beer of the five selected by voters (or a completely different one if they agree unanimously). Again drinking and celebrations will continue late into the night.
Day 5- The grand finale. Around noon time the championship horse race will take place, followed shortly by the final round of the jousting tournament. After the conclusion of these events the count will announce the results of the beer panel and name the best beer of the season. The three champions will then enjoy celebrity status throughout the final day of the celebration. The count will make his closing remarks and wish everyone a pleasant and comfortable winter before heading off towards the capital with his wife. While some will go home early, those who stay around will have the chance to experience one more night of outdoor drinking and dancing before the weather turns too cold. A night time fireworks display and the firing of cannons (without cannon balls) will signify the end of the festival and everyone will have to wait until next year.
These events are only rough guidelines and are subject to change. Any noble from within the kingdom of Mivian may participate in any competition or send a delegate to represent their region.
Dear Count Aksarben,
Congratulations on your impending matrimony. May your union be long and fruitful.
I am regretfully unable to attend the festivities myself, but my youngest son, Thibault, shall attend on my behalf. With him shall come fifty bales of the finest Nidervissan wool, perfect for making into fine robes or even tapestries. I hope you and your wife find good use of it, and hope you enjoy the finest wool in all Mivean. I wish you all the best and hope that our lands will have amiable relations going into the future.
Most sincerely,
Guy, House d'Cornouaille, Count of Nidervisse
Congratulations on your impending matrimony. May your union be long and fruitful.
I am regretfully unable to attend the festivities myself, but my youngest son, Thibault, shall attend on my behalf. With him shall come fifty bales of the finest Nidervissan wool, perfect for making into fine robes or even tapestries. I hope you and your wife find good use of it, and hope you enjoy the finest wool in all Mivean. I wish you all the best and hope that our lands will have amiable relations going into the future.
Most sincerely,
Guy, House d'Cornouaille, Count of Nidervisse
To Lord Daniels of Aksarben,
I, David Sommet will hereby let you know I will attend personally in the celebrations of your upcoming marriage to Lady Marie. With my shall be my twins, Danielle and Deniel, they are excited to see all the events during the festivities. With us we shall bring jewelry made by the best jewelers in the Lower Plait, as well as Aruthian silk. I would also be honored to join in the archery events to be.
May Patros bless your marriage and the upcoming festivities.
I, David Sommet will hereby let you know I will attend personally in the celebrations of your upcoming marriage to Lady Marie. With my shall be my twins, Danielle and Deniel, they are excited to see all the events during the festivities. With us we shall bring jewelry made by the best jewelers in the Lower Plait, as well as Aruthian silk. I would also be honored to join in the archery events to be.
May Patros bless your marriage and the upcoming festivities.
Signed,
David Sommet,
Count of the Lower Plait
David Sommet,
Count of the Lower Plait
((GM note: Due to the break, I am just giving you all a reminder that orders are due this coming Thursday, the 9th))
To the Honorable Count of Aksarben,
I write to congratulate you on your coming marriage, as well as to send my regrets that I won't be able to attend. Both myself and my eldest son having pressing matters that must be attended to, however, my youngest son, Baron Nicolas of Nemour, will come in my place. Lydes has always been something more of a facilitator of trade than a creator of goods, but Nicolas will arrive with casks of Lydesian Brandy for you to enjoy. In addition, I'm sure he would be eager to provide music for your guests, should you be interested. At any rate, I wish you the best of luck hope that you and your bride-to-be find the time to enjoy yourselves during all the events you have planned.
Comte Richard Remache of Lydes
To the Esteemed Count of Akserben
Permit me to extend my congratulations on your forthcoming marriage. I wish you and Lady Marie every happiness.
I shall attend the ceremony in person, accompanied by a staff of two footmen, for whom I trust accommodation may be found at a local inn. My wife, the dear Lady Anne, will be unable to join in witnessing the ceremony but sends her kind regards.
As gifts to commemorate the grand occasion, I shall bring urns of precious perfumes from the Trivian City-States. Additionally, I shall be glad to participate in the horseracing event planned for the fifth day of the festivities.
Alistair Sommet,
Duke of Cowen & Marquis of the Upper Plait
Duke of Cowen & Marquis of the Upper Plait