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Post by Ringulf on Oct 26, 2011 22:44:31 GMT -5
SImone accepted the appology with a slight tip of her head. "Thanks. But you're still going in with her. Besides, I want to be on hand in case Ringulf here, decides to say anything about quiting my job, moving to Skandia, or my 'wit and charm'." She gave them all a meaningful smile.
Ringulf stood leaning on his longbow up by the top yoke with both hands He leaned his head on his hands thinking of all the witty, snide and inappropriate things he could say. He looked back up at the dark gossamer haired beauty.
"Can't think of anything off hand." he said not taking the bait, with an uncharacteristically vacant expression in his eyes.
Then he turned to the knight and said.
Sir Katrina have you met my comrade Simone? Simone this is Lady Sir Katrina De Montgomery, a Knight of Araluen and Daughter of Duke David and Duchess Oriana De Montgomery who reside here in Norgate."
"Come to think of it I don't think the cold would be too good for you, and those Skandians find you darker complected women somewhat intoxicating. I think you would most likely have half the men in the country mooning and pining after you and the other half looking to sell you on the open market. But I really do feel you would most likely not like the climate." he said nonchalantly
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Post by Brandwyn on Nov 8, 2011 14:24:57 GMT -5
"No Katrina, I have not seen one since the death of Morgaroth, and I have certainly not ever seen one this far north, not to say anything of a semi organized attack of this number of individuals. Thank you for the report on Aribjorn, Sir Katrina, we should make sure Sir Deitule is informed as well. What actually happened? I saw Red and that young boy come in and covered their escape but then made for the battlements in order to get a force of rangers where they could do the most good.” Ringulf said.
Katrina looked thoughtful and then nodded, looking around for Sir Deitule. “I saw your young man there give an order we use to cover ourselves with our shields during an archery volley. Then he launched himself from that other squire’s shield into the air over our shield wall and headed off the Wargal that was chasing those two ranger girls. If not for him, I don’t think they would have survived.” Katrina answered. “It was quite heroic and reckless. Reminds me of – myself!” She laughed. “I didn’t see him get injured but I am glad he is going to be okay.”
“I suppose we should tell Sir Deitule about Ari he will want to know. Is it true that Deitule is being sent back to Gaulica on a mission? I was hoping that he would be able to continue to instruct Aribjorn for a while, the boy needs a firm but understanding hand. He has a true Skandian heart but there is something strangely...Noble in him for a Skandian and he needs some guidance when it comes to matters of the heart. For him to be engaging in heroic exploits like he showed us today, makes me think he may get himself killed before he can achieve his goals. He is the son of a Skandian Jarl, did you know that? Can you imagine what it would be like for us to have a knight of Araluin on the Kunge's throne in Hallashome? Or even a voice on the Jarl's council?"
Sir Deitule is definitely the man for that job.” Katrina agreed. “I didn’t know he was going back to Gaulica. Perhaps Sir Kenyon can find a good knight for him to squire to. He has an uncanny ability to match knights and squires.” Katrina was supposed to have had her own squire now, but at the last moment the lad had decided not to continue in battleschool. She still wondered if it had been because he had heard he was to be squired to a woman. She knew there were many out there that would not be happy with such an arrangement. On one level she was disappointed at the lost opportunity, but she had been scared nearly witless at the prospect of having an apprentice, so she had been rather relieved when the plan had fallen through. She wondered if it was a good idea to say anything to Ken about Aribjorn or not. If she opened her mouth, he might just assign Ari to her. Which wouldn’t be a problem, but she was still quite nervous about the responsibility that comes with having a squire. Still… she jerked her attention back to the present.
They continued to talk for a few minutes about the attack. "Well what do you think Sir Katrina? You have been stationed here before and know these creatures’ tactics from the war, why here, why now?" Ringulf asked her.
Katrina shook her head, “A bunch of them look thin, I suppose they could have been after food, but that doesn’t really make a lot of sense to me.” Katrina mused. “You know, this is the largest gathering for this time of year and most of the royalty, nobility and high ranking officers and administrators are here. You think this could be politically motivated? It IS rather like Morgorath’s tactics. I wonder if someone else is taking up his cause.” Katrina suggested, not liking the direction her thoughts were going.
They were interrupted by the approach of a rather bedraggled ranger who was limping and being supported by a woman who also walked with a limp. Katrina looked at them curiously as they approached. It became apparent that Ringulf knew both of them and Katrina wondered who the woman was. She had the unmistakable look about her of a seasoned warrior and from the limp, Katrina thought that is could be caused by an old battle wound. She overheard them as they approached.
Rab looked at Simone and a smile slowly etched its way across his face. He did not say anything until they were down the stairs and partway across the courtyard, approaching Ringulf and a lady knight whom Rab had never met--not that he'd ever met that many knights to begin with. "Ringulf, Isn't it true that if Simone was more outgoing, that the first thing people would notice about her is not her gimp but her wit and--." he broke off as he managed to avoid the swipe she took at his head, then finished, "--charm?"
Simone closed her eyes, with a long-suffering expression and sighed. "If you dare agree with him, Ringulf, I will quit my job and move to Skandia."
"I'm sure they would love you up there. It would give you a chance to show off your wit and wonderful charm." Rab told her straight-faced.
Simone rolled her eyes and looked at Katrina. "Take this man inside and give him to a torturer."
Rab looked at Simone seriousness replacing the earlier wry smile. "I'm sorry, Simone, I shouldn't have teased you."
SImone accepted the apology with a slight tip of her head. "Thanks. But you're still going in with her. Besides, I want to be on hand in case Ringulf here decides to say anything about quitting my job, moving to Skandia, or my 'wit and charm'." She gave them all a meaningful smile.
Ringulf stood leaning on his longbow up by the top yoke with both hands He leaned his head on his hands thinking of all the witty, snide and inappropriate things he could say. He looked back up at the dark gossamer haired beauty.
"Can't think of anything off hand." he said not taking the bait, with an uncharacteristically vacant expression in his eyes.
Katrina suppressed a grin and looked sidelong at Simone, “I believe we have a cozy little rack down in the dungeon. I believe he could benefit from a bit of stretching,” she said mildly. “I am sure I could make the arrangements.” Then she grinned, unable to hide her teasing smile any longer. She didn’t know these two, but she was always ready to take the side of a lady, especially another warrior type lady, over that of a man any day.
Then Ringulf turned to the knight and said.
“Sir Katrina have you met my comrade Simone? Simone this is Lady Sir Katrina De Montgomery, a Knight of Araluen and Daughter of Duke David and Duchess Oriana De Montgomery who reside here in Norgate."
Katrina bowed, “Pleased to meet you, Simone. Please, call me Kat.” All her close friends called her that and she had a feeling that she and Simone were kindred spirits. Katrina turned to Rab, “and obviously you are a ranger and a friend of Ringulf’s.” she extended her hand to him. “Pleased to meet you as well.”
Ringulf spoke up, "Come to think of it I don't think the cold would be too good for you, and those Skandians find you darker complexioned women somewhat intoxicating. I think you would most likely have half the men in the country mooning and pining after you and the other half looking to sell you on the open market. But I really do feel you would most likely not like the climate." he said nonchalantly.
Katrina nodded, “I have to agree about the climate up there. Now Iberia has some wonderful beaches on its southeastern coastline. Warm sand, soak up the sunshine and they have these nice fruity drinks. I remember having a great time there when I was a child and we went to visit some snooty relative of the King of Iberia. He was a total bore, but he did have some magnificent horses.” Katrina smiled at Simone. “In fact, I ought to go visit them again and see if I can acquire some breeding stock.” Katrina looked back to Ringulf who seemed to be doing his best to appear innocent.
“I hear the men there are good for that too; supposed to be quite handsome and skilled.” Katrina said conspiratorily to Simone, watching Ringulf and Rab's reactions.
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Post by Ringulf on Nov 8, 2011 14:53:43 GMT -5
“I have to agree about the climate up there. Now Iberia has some wonderful beaches on its southeastern coastline. Warm sand, soak up the sunshine and they have these nice fruity drinks. I remember having a great time there when I was a child and we went to visit some snooty relative of the King of Iberia. He was a total bore, but he did have some magnificent horses.” Katrina smiled at Simone. “In fact, I ought to go visit them again and see if I can acquire some breeding stock.” Katrina looked back to Ringulf who seemed to be doing his best to appear innocent. “I hear the men are good for that too.” Katrina said aside to Simone, watching Ringulf and Rab.
"Hmm As breeding stock or horse trainers? Never mind! ...I would rather not know! I find my blood boils rather too quickly these days after a battle. In fact if I don't find a large keg of Winter Ale in this Iceberg, I may get into a rutting mood myself! and in such "noble company" get myself pummeled for my attempts!' Ringulf said sarcastically, as a way of teasingly chastising the warrior women for tossing out such bawdy subjects and expecting the men not to return in kind.
I believe I shall go see if I can find the boy in the infirmary and try and persuade Fin to get an ale... Enchente Sir Katrina.." He said as he lifted her hand and lightly kissed the back of it in a courtly manner. Then in a rather surprising movement, Ringulf spun and kissed Simone's hand as well and passed her with a chuckle.
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Post by Brandwyn on Nov 8, 2011 19:15:38 GMT -5
Sir Timothy had kept to the far side of the battle, keeping the Wargals from gaining entrance to the keep through the side door near Finn's forge. He had managed to get to his horse in the stable and had his armor and helm and shield. The shield did not carry his family crest and since his chosen arms were not registered, no one should recognize it or him. Or so he hoped. Just in case, though, he kept one eye on his fellow defenders and as soon as the battle looked like it was nearly over, he slipped back to the stables, stowed his helm and shield and then went to find Roath. He thought he had seen the lad near the food tables before the attack, so he headed there now, his travelling hood pulled around his head so only his long hair and bushy beard stuck out of the shadows.
He searched the crowd for his parents and finally spotted them sitting in a quieter corner with several other older couples. The men were in a heated debate, undoubtedly about the Wargal attack. Several of the women were crying and many talking at once. Tim's mother was looking pale and thin, obviously still not well, but she was calmly stitching away at some blackwork on a shirt collar. She looked up and glanced around the room as if she knew she was being watched. For a moment their eyes met and he could have sworn he saw recognition in them. Then she glanced swiftly at his father who was arguing with the Duke of Waterford. She shot him a warning glance and then a smile, confirming that she recognized him. He pursed his lips as if blowing a kiss and then slipped back into the crowd, searching for his young unnofficial squire.
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Post by Ringulf on Nov 8, 2011 22:14:00 GMT -5
“Snowy needs to hunt, please excuse me while I let her out.” Ash said as he rose from the chair, steadying the bird with his right hand. He bowed to Rathbone and Maureena and nodded to Cyrus, then glided to the front door and launched the snow owl into the air. She let out a fierce cry as she climbed into the early night sky, winging her way to her chosen hunting grounds. Ash watched her for several minutes until she was out of sight, going back over what he had just told the Baron. He took a deep breath, let it out slowly, vapor streaming from his mouth in the cold night air and then turned back into the house and the cheery, inviting fire and cozy sitting room.
The owl circled up into the air to get a view of the landscape. even at this time of evening the creatures huge yellow eye saw many times more than the average human and could key in on the slightest movement to streak down on it's prey with such stealth that not even a rustle of feather could be heard. Fortunately she would not have to go far to obtain her evening meal, far below a white snowshoe hare was digging and snuffling in the snow for some tender shoots that might lie below. In an instant she felt a jarring impact as she was impaled with many steel -like talons that paralyzed her as the two animals tumbled in the snow. The angelically argent avian, gripped her spine at the neck and surgically snapped it with ruthless efficiency.
She lurched over the corpse of the hare and spread her mantling of feathered wings almost hiding her prey from outside view.
This did not matter however as the other beast, hidden from view only a few yards away was more interested in Snowy, looking at her in the same way that she had just looked at the hare.
...........................................................................................................................................
"Well Ash, now that you have rested and warmed yourself, would you like your good friend to show you up to your room? I would think that you would like to freshen up a bit, and in a while return for dinner. I made sure that suitable, comfortable garments were laid out for you to lounge snugly in this evening. I was interested in your plans for the Revel will you be coming with us to the ball? perhaps there are other activities that will interest you? Oh and as my guest here please feel free to avail yourself of my chalet, my staff and any transport you may require. you are to dine and shop the local merchants to your hearts content, I will settle any payments afterward just instruct all to put it all on my account."
Just then a servant came into the room and leaned toward the Barron. Barely audible to Ash the man whispered, "There is a man to see you in the rear parlor your excellency shall I seat him there until you are finished with your guest?...ah he is not alone your Excellency he has an..animal with him I thought it best if he remain outside."
"Yes very well have him wait on the doorstep I will be with him presently." the Baron said in annoyance.
"You will excuse me Ash, please follow Cyrus to your room and I will rejoin you shortly."
The Baron turned to the weapons on the wall and as Ash was escorted by Cyrus, he selected a fairly large bladed crossbow and laid it on his shoulder, sauntering off in the direction of the parlor.
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Post by Firehead on Nov 9, 2011 11:46:31 GMT -5
Ringulf stood leaning on his longbow up by the top yoke with both hands He leaned his head on his hands thinking of all the witty, snide and inappropriate things he could say. He looked back up at the dark gossamer haired beauty.
"Can't think of anything off hand." he said not taking the bait, with an uncharacteristically vacant expression in his eyes.
Katrina suppressed a grin and looked sidelong at Simone, “I believe we have a cozy little rack down in the dungeon. I believe he could benefit from a bit of stretching,” she said mildly. “I am sure I could make the arrangements.” Then she grinned, unable to hide her teasing smile any longer.
Rab frowned in her direction. "Are you saying I'm too short?"
Then Ringulf turned to the knight and said.
“Sir Katrina have you met my comrade Simone? Simone this is Lady Sir Katrina De Montgomery, a Knight of Araluen and Daughter of Duke David and Duchess Oriana De Montgomery who reside here in Norgate."
Katrina bowed, “Pleased to meet you, Simone. Please, call me Kat.” All her close friends called her that and she had a feeling that she and Simone were kindred spirits.
Simone responded with a nod. "It's always a pleasure to meet a woman who can kick butt just as well as she can sew or gossip."
Katrina turned to Rab, “and obviously you are a ranger and a friend of Ringulf’s.” she extended her hand to him. “Pleased to meet you as well.”
Rab shook her hand. "Rab Streamflag. Just call me Rab."
Ringulf spoke up, "Come to think of it I don't think the cold would be too good for you, and those Skandians find you darker complexioned women somewhat intoxicating. I think you would most likely have half the men in the country mooning and pining after you and the other half looking to sell you on the open market. But I really do feel you would most likely not like the climate." he said nonchalantly.
Katrina nodded, “I have to agree about the climate up there. Now Iberia has some wonderful beaches on its southeastern coastline. Warm sand, soak up the sunshine and they have these nice fruity drinks. I remember having a great time there when I was a child and we went to visit some snooty relative of the King of Iberia. He was a total bore, but he did have some magnificent horses.” Katrina smiled at Simone. “In fact, I ought to go visit them again and see if I can acquire some breeding stock.” Katrina looked back to Ringulf who seemed to be doing his best to appear innocent. “I hear the men there are good for that too; supposed to be quite handsome and skilled.” Katrina said conspiratorily to Simone, watching Ringulf and Rab's reactions.
Simone gave the two of them a polite smile, but wound up rolling her eyes at Ringulf's reply. Rab studied the ground with extreme care, wondering how he'd wound up a part of this conversation.
"I believe I shall go see if I can find the boy in the infirmary and try and persuade Fin to get an ale... Enchente Sir Katrina.." He said as he lifted her hand and lightly kissed the back of it in a courtly manner. Then in a rather surprising movement, Ringulf spun and kissed Simone's hand as well and passed her with a chuckle.
Simone took a swipe at Ringulf's head, in an attempt to retaliate but missed. "Don't kiss every female you see on your way, or a certain woman I know might get jealous!" she tossed after his receeding back.
Rab shifted his balance and felt his injured leg start to buckle. He leaned back on Simone with a reluctant sigh. He'd half been hoping that he wouldn't have to rely on someone else to help him to the healer. Unfortunately, it appeared that his hope had been in vain. "So, if we're finished with this.....conversation, would one of you mind helping me get inside?"
Simone had felt the shifting of his balance and turned to look at Rab. He was starting to look pale. She shifted her gaze to Katrina. "I'd consider it a favor if you'd help him. I'm not sure I can navigate all those steps out here and in the stairwell, at least, not with him as well."
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Post by Brandwyn on Nov 10, 2011 12:17:11 GMT -5
Rab frowned in her direction. "Are you saying I'm too short?"
Katrina looked at him blankly, "not at all. I was referring to your comments to the Lady here," she indicated Simone. "The Baron likes to refer to the rack as his 'attitude adjuster.'" she chuckled.
When Ringulf strode off Katrina grinned. She had been raised in a battleschool and colorful talk was no stranger to her. She figured Ringulf just felt a little outnumbered to continue the slightly bawdy conversation. Rab didn't look too comfortable either.
"So, if we're finished with this.....conversation, would one of you mind helping me get inside?" Rab said.
Simone had felt the shifting of his balance and turned to look at Rab. He was starting to look pale. She shifted her gaze to Katrina. "I'd consider it a favor if you'd help him. I'm not sure I can navigate all those steps out here and in the stairwell, at least, not with him as well."
Katrina had noticed the injury and saw the ranger was swaying on his feet. She doubted he was going to be able to walk all the way to the healer and if he did it would only make the wound worse.
"Sure!" Katrina quipped and reached over to grab Rab's left hand. She stepped forward, bent down as if she was going to butt him with her shoulder in his gutt and then gently pulled him off his feet and across her back in a standard battlefield carry. "Follow me!"
She carried him across the compound and saw a squire near the entry door that had been closed just in case there were any more attacks. "Hey you Squire, open that door would you?" she called out. The lad scrambled to do her bidding. "Yes Sir, Miss Katrina, Sir." She smiled at him as she passed and carefully navigated the door so she would not bang Rab's head on the framework.
"Sorry to carry you like this, but it just looked like it would be much more efficient." He was a little heavy, but not too much for her to handle. Still she was already sweating with extra exhertion. She strode down into the main hall and made her way to the infirmary. It was pretty crowded. She looked around and spotted an empty chair near the far wall and made her way toward it, beckoning to a nurse as she went.
She deposited Rab in the chair, setting him down gently, and then stood up and rubbed her lower back. "Ranger or no, you definately gave me a workout. That's how we are supposed to carry our comrades off the battlefield, you know? Now here comes that nurse and I am sure she will get you fixed right up." Katrina motioned again and the nurse came over carrying a basket of bandages.
"Where's the injury?" She asked looking Rab over starting with his head. "I hear the fighting is over, is that right?"
Katrina nodded. "This battle is over. We are sending out scouts to see if there are any more around. I think I am going to go change," she looked at her torn and blood stained dress and sighed, "Before my mother sees me." She turned to Rab, "Nice to meet you. Send for me if you need help again."
The nurse turned to Rab, "So, let me take a look at that wound."
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Post by Firehead on Nov 10, 2011 15:16:13 GMT -5
"Sure!" Katrina quipped and reached over to grab Rab's left hand. She stepped forward, bent down as if she was going to butt him with her shoulder in his gutt and then gently pulled him off his feet and across her back in a standard battlefield carry. "Follow me!"
Rab had never been all that outspoken, and by nature had a soft-spoken tone, so his startled, "Hey!" lacked force. Then he was being bourn on Katrina's shoulders across the courtyard. He realized that to struggle would be to look rediculous, so instead, he went limp, playin' possum, as his parents would have called it.
"Sorry to carry you like this, but it just looked like it would be much more efficient."
"Oh, thank you." Rab mumbled. the sarcasm was at least audible. he was far from thrilled with the way he was being "helped" into the castle.
She strode down into the main hall and made her way to the infirmary. It was pretty crowded. She looked around and spotted an empty chair near the far wall and made her way toward it, beckoning to a nurse as she went.She deposited Rab in the chair, setting him down gently, and then stood up and rubbed her lower back. "Ranger or no, you definately gave me a workout. That's how we are supposed to carry our comrades off the battlefield, you know? Now here comes that nurse and I am sure she will get you fixed right up."
Rab opened his eyes, once seated in the chair and looked up at Katrina, meeting her eyes. While his tone was soft, it still carried inflection, quite well. "That is easily the most embarrassing moment in my life. However--." he broke off as the nurse reached them.
"Where's the injury?" She asked looking Rab over starting with his head. "I hear the fighting is over, is that right?"
Katrina nodded. "This battle is over. We are sending out scouts to see if there are any more around. I think I am going to go change," she looked at her torn and blood stained dress and sighed, "Before my mother sees me." She turned to Rab, "Nice to meet you. Send for me if you need help again."
Rab gave her a nod, his face revealing nothing but politeness, as he said, "Thank you for your assisstance. Could you do me two favors, when you have the time? Could you go find my apprentice Adriane for me, and tell her to meet me here? and second, If you saw Harrison while you were packing me around, and he saw you, would you please go and find him again, and wring. His. Neck."
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When Katrina had left, the nurse turned to Rab, "So, let me take a look at that wound."
"You might have more success looking at my left leg than at my head, Ma'am." he told her.
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Post by Brandwyn on Nov 15, 2011 15:25:24 GMT -5
"Well Ash, now that you have rested and warmed yourself, would you like your good friend to show you up to your room? I would think that you would like to freshen up a bit, and in a while return for dinner. I made sure that suitable, comfortable garments were laid out for you to lounge snugly in this evening.”
“Thank you, My Lord, your hospitality is most gracious.” Ash stood and bowed slightly to the Baron. “I believe I am a bit sodden from the trail. I do hope I have not ruined this comfortable chair.” Ash looked dubiously at the slightly damp ring he had left on the chair cushion from his wet clothes.
“I was interested in your plans for the Revel will you be coming with us to the ball? Perhaps there are other activities that will interest you?
Ash smiled, this time his eyes actually did light up as he said thoughtfully, “oh yes, there are a few activities that I have planned. I would be delighted to follow your sleigh on Raven and arrive as your guest.” Ash answered. “I hear Cardinal Radcliffe is supposed to be here and I would like to speak with him. He has been my benefactor in my Order and I owe him a great deal. I have made a special gift for him and have not seen him for many months.”
“Oh and as my guest here please feel free to avail yourself of my chalet, my staff and any transport you may require. You are to dine and shop the local merchants to your heart’s content, I will settle any payments afterward just instruct all to put it all on my account."
Just then a servant came into the room and leaned toward the Barron. Barely audible to Ash the man whispered, "There is a man to see you in the rear parlor your Excellency shall I seat him there until you are finished with your guest?...ah he is not alone your Excellency he has an...animal with him I thought it best if he remain outside."
"Yes very well have him wait on the doorstep I will be with him presently." the Baron said in annoyance.
"You will excuse me Ash, please follow Cyrus to your room and I will rejoin you shortly."
Before Ash could answer Rathbone, they were interrupted. Ash nodded to the Baron, “Certainly and I thank you for your hospitality.” He turned to follow Cyrus and watched curiously as the Baron left the room with a large crossbow. “Interesting,” Ash murmured. “Any idea who his guest is, Cy?” he said softly as they entered the short hallway to the stairs.
The second floor room, located in the back corner of the cottage, was small, cozy and luxuriously furnished and Ash sighed with contentment as he sat down in a large cushioned arm chair. His pack and blanket roll and saddlebags were lying on a cushioned settee by the door with a puddle forming in the carpet under them. There was a screen in one corner with a tub of hot water waiting for him to bathe in. The clothes laid out on the bed were not really his style, but they were warm and looked comfortable. His own clothing was damp from the hours spent in the snow watching the road, even though they had been inside his pack. He stood back up and began pulling everything out of his bedroll and travel pack. A scrap of parchment fell out onto the bench and Ash quickly scooped it up. Glancing at it he noticed Cyrus’s handwriting. There was a wardrobe in the corner and he hung up his garments, leaving the door to the wardrobe open so they could dry. Cyrus helped him unpack, looking at him furtively and seeming to be just a bit nervous. Ash wondered if Cy ever really did relax his guard anywhere.
He went to the window and opened the shutters, looking in the sky to see if Snowy was done hunting yet. He also hoped to catch the Baron’s conversation; or at least a glimpse of his guest and this ‘animal’ with him. He was resisting the urge to actually sneak back downstairs and attempt to eavesdrop because his curiosity was aroused. However he didn’t want to risk the Baron’s ire by snooping, so he closed the window and shut out the cold night air. Later he was going to need the same courtesy from the Baron. Although he was shutting the owl out, he knew Snowy would find her way to Raven’s stall if she returned before he finished his bath. Ash looked at the inviting steaming hot water in the tub and sat down in the chair next to it and began unlacing his midnight blue knee high suede boots.
“Cy?” he looked up at his friend and rolled the note Cyrus had tucked into his bedroll when he arrived in his hand waiting for Cyrus’s eyes to fall on it, “How have you been, my friend? Is the Baron treating you right?” What he was really asking was if it were safe for them to speak openly here. As he carefully unrolled the scrap of parchment and began to read he said conversationally in case anyone were listening to them, “I saw Arielle arrive and she does not look well. That pig of a brother-in-law of mine is treating her horribly, but I must say she seems to be holding up as well as can be expected. She is so brave. Have you seen Anya lately? She arrived with Father shortly after Duke Avignoned and Arielle arrived. They are all staying in the castle it appears.”
___
Maureena quietly followed the two young men up the stairs and slipped up next to the door after Cyrus had closed it behind them. She pressed her ear to the keyhole and could just barely make out what they were saying.
The hallway was drafty and she was glad of the warm robe she wore over the skimpy middle-eastern costume the Baron had picked out for her for this evening. She concentrated on the conversation in the room and tried not to let her mind wander to what lay ahead for her during the long night. With the current visitor downstairs, the Baron could end up in a right foul mood and if so, she would be the one to suffer for it. She hoped that she would over hear some information here that would swing the Baron’s mood back into a more favorable light and hopefully spare her body some wear and tear in the hours ahead. Once again she marveled at how little sleep the Baron needed, even though she had been with him for many, many months now. Fortunately he let her rest when he was through with her and so the morning should find her sleeping soundly – if this went well. She stopped her musing and peeked through the keyhole. The young priest was reading something and Cyrus was looking a bit more nervous than his usual self. ‘Interesting,’ Maureena thought and grinned. The Baron ought to be interested in that. Maybe she could even get her hands on the scrap of parchment later and find out what it contained. She set her ear back to the door so she could follow their conversation.
She was ready to slip into the darkened corner at the top of the stairs should either of the men step toward the door. With any luck they would never know she had been there and she would have an inkling of the Benedictine’s plans to feed to Radnat during his evening’s entertainment.
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Post by Brandwyn on Nov 16, 2011 11:58:16 GMT -5
Rab gave her a nod, his face revealing nothing but politeness, as he said, "Thank you for your assisstance. Could you do me two favors, when you have the time? Could you go find my apprentice Adriane for me, and tell her to meet me here? and second, If you saw Harrison while you were packing me around, and he saw you, would you please go and find him again, and wring. His. Neck."
“I will!” Tory quipped as she scampered up to Rab and Katrina. “I left Adrianne on the wall. She was helping collect arrows last I saw.” Tory said to Rab. “You must be her mentor, Rab. Hi, I am Tory and I would be more than happy to wring Harrison’s neck for you.” She scowled and tried to see if he was anywhere around. “That man has got to be one of the single most annoying person on the planet.”
Katrina looked sheepish, “Oh, sorry there Rab. I didn’t mean to cause you any grief. I umm… better go find Sir Dietule "Nice to meet you. Send for me if you need help again." she walked off leaving Tory with Rab and the nurse and Ogmund hovering behind her.
“I saw Finn go in to see Ari, so I guess Ringulf knows what happened.” Tory said to Ogmund. “I am going to go try to find Adrianne and tell her that Rab is looking for her.” She turned back to Rab. “I will keep my eyes peeled for Harrison, he has been watching me like a hawk since I got here anyway. It will be nice to return the favor. Is Ringulf still in the courtyard?”
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Post by Ringulf on Feb 15, 2012 13:56:50 GMT -5
The two old friends had been alone in Ashes room for a bit and were just ready to get Ash ready for the hot bath when footsteps were heard on the staircase leading up to the room. A bit of shuffling was heard near the doorway and a moment later a knock. when Cyrus opened the door the same servant that had told the Baron of his Guests was standing a bit winded and said to Cyrus,
"Please inform master Ash, that with apologies, the Baron would like to see the two of you at once."
He did not wait for a reply but turned on his heel and sped back the way he came. When The two were able to come down to the great room once more the Baron stood with his back to then and his hand upon the mantelpiece as he stared into the warm crackling fire. It had obviously been renewed, the crossbow was back in place on the wall and oddly enough, a snowy owl perched upon a modified cloak rack jesses secured and preening his rather ruffled and blood covered breast feathers.
"Ah thank you for rejoining me my friend, do not be alarmed he is a bit disheveled but as best I can tell he is fine, he seemed to have made a kill and then almost have been made into a meal himself. The huntsman of this challet that brought him here frightened off some large beast he said, as the hunter became the hunted."
The Baron turned from the fireplace and moved toward Ash, he seemed almost weary or perhaps burdened and was not the calm but sharp Barron Rathbone that all were used to seeing.
"The incident may be over but it puts me in mind of a serious turn of events that I wish to discuss with you young Ash, Would you do me the Honor of sitting with me a while? I have much to discuss with you." Said the Baron the cloud of weariness passing from him as though a cloud had just passed before the bright moon.
(This storyline with Ash, Baron Rathbone, Picno and Cyrus began and continues in The Armor and the Cloth on the Araluen board)
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Post by Brandwyn on Sept 28, 2012 16:13:03 GMT -5
(OOC: Due to real time slipping away many of these story lines have been left hanging so here is a wrap-up of what happened to most of the characters next.)
Sir Timothy and his young companion, Roath, managed to slip out of the castle without Tim being recognized and reported to the authorities. He also was able to have another brief meeting with Sir Katrina who supplied him with some travelling money and some basic supplies shortly after the battle with the Wargals.
Being curious as to how the Wargals came to be so far north, Sir Timothy and Roath tracked a small group that split off from the majority of them at the beginning of the battle. They were heading South and Tim and Roath followed them throughout the summer, never quite catching up to them and often lending a helping hand to the unfortunate peasants that were in the Wargal's path. For the most part the Wargals kept to the wilderness and seemed intent on their destination, wherever that might be.
They only ventured close to settlements when they needed food. During those times they would choose a single farm or small group of farms and attack the farmers and steal their livestock and then keep moving, never staying more than two nights in any one location.
By the end of the Gathering in the late summer, early fall, the destination of the Wargals was pretty clearly Morgoroth's Plateu above the Southern Cliffs. Tim and Roath took a slight detour so Tim could show is protege the sea and that's where a certain letter from Sir Katrina and another from the Baron of Norgate caught up to him. Their story picks up in "Hunting Wargals" on the Southern Cliffs board.
***
Fin, Ringulf, Smone, Mylia, Geir and Tory returned to Marshwood and continued their never ending struggle against the Marshwood bandits and river pirates. Fin spent a great deal of time with Tory teaching her how to do some very basic forging of simple household tools as well as making jewelry items. Tory also spent some time training with the Marshwood Surgeon's guild on the reccomendation of the Norgate's physcian. She learned a great deal more than basic first aid from them concerning patching up wounds and setting broken bones. But throughout that summer there seemed to be several people who were getting sick witha fever and eventually the surgeon's told her to stay away for her own safety just a few weeks before she left for the Gathering.
Tory also was learning a great deal more control over her archery, knife fighting and basic ranger skills from Ringulf and she enjoyed the time she spent with Mylia. They even had a very friendly rivalry between them in trying to excell at their ranger training and making Ringulf more proud of one of them over the other. It was all in good fun, however and Tory was thrilled to have such a good friend. She was still sad a lot of the time and missing Patrick Palisade and she often wondered how Tandar was doing, but it was a time of healing and growth and she was getting more and more confident in her own abilities. The nightmares of her past seemed distant and the dreams even stopped, right up until a week before they left for the Gathering in the fall.
Tory's story picks up in "Confrontations" on the Meric board and you can find more tales of her in "the Official Gathering" thread on the Gathering Board under Western Fiefs.
Ringulf, Simone, Geir and Mylia's stories continue on "Plauge Guards of Marshwood", "The Gathering", "Something in the Air" and "The Trek North" all on the Northern Fief's board
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Post by Brandwyn on Sept 28, 2012 16:27:11 GMT -5
Fin next appears in Hazards of Trading which occurs during and just at the end of the Gathering while Ringulf, Mylia and Tory are gone. Katrina makes her next appearance in this thread as well and runs into some old Scotti friends from the Aslavian war, one Shaemus MacConnell who was the Scotti Ambassador back in the threads pertaining to the war.
***
During the Winter Revel Sir Katrina orders a sword to be made by Fin and she presents this as a gift to her former Man-at-Arms, Henry upon his elevation to Master-at-Arms as he is inducted to take over the defense of Norgate Castle.
Dougal, who resigned from leading the Special Warfare Corps and turned it over to his second, Greer, was not let out of service by the King. Duncan sent him on a highly secret, deep cover mission and even Katrina does not know where he now is, or even if he still lives. They are still engaged to be married and her mother is still opposed to the idea, though Katrina's father has grown to respect Dougal and accept the match.
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Post by Ringulf on Oct 1, 2012 14:55:09 GMT -5
Gier, after returning from Norgate and having been recognised as an exellent, natural archer and outdoorsman, decides to follow Simone to become the youngest Marshwarden in the Fife. It is a bit difficult at first but his skill and work ethic quickly secure him a place amongst his fellow Wardens. His story picks back up in "The Hazards of Trading"
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Post by Ringulf on Dec 7, 2013 14:59:24 GMT -5
The Baron after the last meeting with Ash in "The Armor and the Cloth" (were this message will also be posted) Slips from the Chalet before the Wargals attack on Norgate. He takes with him Maureena, Cylas and his household servants and travels to his new Estate in the Fife of Marshwood. His story continues in "The Armor and the Cloth".
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