• This section is for roleplays only.
    ALL interest checks/recruiting threads must go in the Recruit Here section.

    Please remember to credit artists when using works not your own.

Lordling (Harwood)

Lorsh

Lorsh

Varlot
Roleplay Availability
Roleplay Type(s)
1594833812126.png

  • You are Lord Edwin Harwood, first son of Lord Thomas Harwood. You are a young man, and now a lord in your own right.

    You preside over Harhold, and have three villages mastered by your vassals, Bornbarrow, Jayhill and Stromroad. The knights of these villages are Sir Destrin, Sir Pembry and Sir Hywel, respectively. These men have bailiffs doing most of the management of these villages, while they are engaged in knightly pursuits such as hunting, training, and attending your court.

    The villages under your domain mostly provide crops, wood, and woolen cloth. The sheep flocks in Bornbarrow also provide meat, while their wool is used by the weavers to make padded gambeson armor. The weavers are obligated produce a number of sets of padded armor, though they must be paid to surrender more than what they owe. In Jayhill, there is also a wainwright who makes wagons out of wood, and an apothecary that professes alchemical skills.

    You are mostly directly responsible for the administration of Harhold, a motte and bailey fortress with most of its buildings protected by a wooden palisade. Most of the male servants double as your personal soldiers; your retinue is comprised of 49 men, including all its commanders. Many lordlings in Midduch have few retained men under their command, but since it has been less than a year after Guy Edban's peasant rebellion in Serbeck Barony, many lords still have a decent amount of men on hand. Your 22 (8 being veterans) footmen carry shields and hand weapons (such as a short sword, axe, or mace) by default, though spears are kept in the armory. They generally wear woolen gambesons from the weaveries in Bornbarrow, though your best troops wear mail over top. You also have a sizable fighting group of 25 archers, also clad in thick woolen jacks (with 7 veterans in mail) and all possessing a melee sidearm.


    Lately, it seems like days have been shorter and more dreary, with threads of black clouds in the sky. Birds are not chirping as they used to, and the gloomy overcast seems to be putting everyone in the domain in a more sour mood. Not only that, but now terrifying news is beginning to come down from the capital; apparently something bloody has happened there.

    One of your on-duty retainers reports to you with a bow. "My lord," your man says, "an envoy has arrived from the Baron of Stromwood. He wishes to speak with you urgently."




 
Last edited:
Lord Harwood awoke, early in the morning, he had not slept long since his fathers passing. He always wondered why his lordly father never seemed to sleep, even at the earliest hours of sun. He realized now that the burden of rulership was not all that Boldic chivalry promised, rather young Edwin found himself constantly busy, either drilling in the square with good Sir Borren, a friend whose companionship was forged during the rebellion, or attending to matters of court and administration. There was fun to be had, the occasional feast after a day of hunting, or a ride out with his retinue to one of the outlying villages, yet they were always for a purpose, to appease his men, or to better understand the status of the villages he held for the baron.

Slowly growing aware from his groggy state, Lord Harwood walked to the window in his quarters, looking out to the courtyard below, seeing a few people beginning their daily duties. Traditionally before he dressed for the day, Edwin stretched, as his old uncle had taught him, remembering that "tight body is an easy body to kill". Edwin wasn't so sure about this reasoning, but regardless, it helped him feel more awake, and alert for the day to come. Soon after this, Lord Edwin dressed himself with fine a gambeson and trousers from the weavers in Bornbarrow. Upon his coat emblazoned the crest of his house, a shield of the yellow and black colors of Harwood sewn into the center of the padded jacket with silver thread, slightly glittery in the right light. Next, Edwin buckled a pair of black leather boots, simple, but functional. He finished his routine with washing his face, and brushing his hair, then strapping his belt over his coat, another intricate piece, black sewn together with yellow thread. On his left side was his sword, a pretty thing, the bear of his family encrusted on the pommel, and on the right a coin purse, usually with a few silvers and the sort should he need them.

Finally, Edwin emerged from his chambers, prepared for the day. As he stepped out from his room, a retainer would approach him, looking rather flustered, "My lord," the man says, "an envoy has arrived from the Baron of Stromwood. He wishes to speak with you urgently." Hearing the mans offer, Edwin responded to the bowman, "Very well then, escort this envoy into the hall, and see that he is fed, before that gather my council and tell them I've requested their audience in the chamber, tell them what you told me about the envoy." Edwin dismissed his man, the duties of his post already pestering him, even in the earliest hours. He would make his way down the narrow spiraling staircase in his small keep, down to the base level, where he'd move to the adjoining kitchen. Here he would address those workers present. "If you have something made to eat, please bring it out, and set the table nicely if you could, we have a guest from Lord Stromwood." From here, it would not be far from the hall, where Edwin would sit himself at the head of the table, awaiting his advisers, then the envoy.
 
Your bowman speeds himself away to inform your household's high officers, Sir Borren and Master Janess.

The latter was a high-ranking commoner that served as one of your father's best foot retainers until a few years ago, when he saved your father's life during a skirmish with several bloodthirsty outlaws. Though he was only armed with a spear and long dagger, he cut down several men with great skill, before being finally knighted by your father as a reward. He is still getting used to the intricacies of knighthood, and still prefers to use a spear compared to a more 'gentlemanly' weapon, though he still carries a sword as a sidearm after his promotion. Sir Borren was always by your side during Guy Edban's rebellion, and was aghast at the passing of your dear father.

Master Janess was an older man with a varied life. When he was young, he served as a squire and a soldier, though he eventually renounced the life of combat and became a student in the small university in Redwold that studied inside of the town temple. Later, he became a faithful steward to your father, now continuing to serve you.

Father Justus was cousin to Master Janess, and had served in the temples in Trimount Abbey since he was a boy, learning to read and write early on. He served as your father's chief bookkeeper, and was the keep's religious minister to all the staff.


These three men soon appear in the hall, and are seated at the lord's table. Some of your soldiers, still in their servant's tunics, bring out white bread and watered wine to serve to the small gathering. The envoy is one of Lord Stromwood's men of foot, wearing a blue cloak and an arming cap, with a sword on his side. Upon your entrance, all the men nod their heads in respect to you. "Milord," the envoy begins. "There is trouble within Stoncrest and Woodwick," he says. You recognize these names as belonging to the two settlements near Jeborough. "Sir Moulton of Stoncrest and his bailiff have broken their vows to the Baron of Stromwood, and raised these villages in rebellion against your rightful lord. He commands that you gather your weapons and men and march there to bring this rogue knight to justice, along with any of his lowborn lackeys." The envoy seems a bit shaken, stuttering a few times as he says this. "My apologies, milord. One of their men tried to kill me as I rode over here, my horse took an arrow."

You know Sir Moulton, and he never seemed like a conspiratorial type at all, having served faithfully to Lord Stromwood on many occasions.

1580073170918.png
 
Last edited:
Edwin listens closely to the envoys words eyeing the man to see if he perhaps recognizes his from the rebellion, or the various times he has been at the barons court, allowing the man to finish, before speaking. "This is most dire news, please, take a moment and collect yourself. You must tell me, if you rode from Stromwood, how are Woodwick and Stoncrest men intercepting you between here and Stromwood keep? Furthermore, have you brought any sort of letter from my liege? It is unusual he would send a lone rider, with just his word. I need more details, I am sworn to the baron, but I am no use to him if I am ill-prepared to serve."

Edwin pauses, taking a sip of his watered wine.

"The men who attacked you, describe the encounter to me, further, I'll have your horse brought to our stables, so our boys may take care of it. You are a welcomed guest here until this is sorted out, when we ride for Stromwood, I want you amongst us, tell me, what is your name?"
 
The man is definitely recognizable, but certainly not by name. Still, you've seen him deliver random news from the Baron of Stromwood before. He always tends to wear an arming cap without an actual helmet, though he does keep a bowl-shaped skullcap clasped by his leather belt. "The men lied in wait near the crossroads to the southeast of Stromroad, milord. Though I do not know for certain, I'd warrant that they were posted to watch Lord Stromwood's castle in case he began to march on Sir Moulton's villages." He exhaled. "And well, they may have decided that Lord Stromwood should not have contact with you, given you make up part of his host."

The envoy seemed to remember something, and quickly produced a small parchment scroll bearing the Baron of Stromwood's seal. He went on to describe the attack. "Thank you, milord. It is a jolly horse, I hope it does not die. My name is Jerald, and these men were foresters from the rebel villages, and though they were peasants, I did not wish to face them three men to one, so I rode past." Despite his sword, the envoy was certainly no knight.

1580076992131.png
 
Last edited:
Edwin listens to the horseman's story, "I do not blame you, three on one, even against rabble, is still unlikely odds, save for Sir Boren", Edwin nods at his captain, giving a slight grin. Grabbing the scroll from him Edwin breaks the seal, and quickly reads the words, somewhat mouthing them to himself, then looking up towards the man. "I see Jerald, forgive my suspicion, I do not take my oaths lightly. I will need a day to assemble my men, and make preparations to leave, does Lord Angas expect me to ride for Stromwood? He has promised a dozen riders to aid in this task, which I do intend to utilize, am I to collect them there? Also, is there any thing else you can tell me of these rebels? Do they have professional retinuemen or just these disgruntled common folk? Tell me anything useful, it might save our lives come the fighting."
 
Sir Borren chuckles a bit, shrugging. He makes no jabs towards the envoy, though.

The young man in the blue cloak continues. "Sir Moulton, like most knights, has no retinue of his own, milord. However, we have heard that the villages are quite dedicated towards his treacherous cause. Local levies, both serfs and men of the smallholds, are fighting in his name," Jerald the herald says. "From our records of the villages, there are perhaps one to two dozen equipped men fighting for Sir Moulton, and dozens more rabble."

The envoy elaborates on the cavalry support. "He did not include it in the letter, should it fall into enemy hands. However, I was told that Lord Stromwood's men will be waiting at Bannon village, and their serjeant will link up with you there."

1580081896118.png
 
"I see, I will need some time to prepare my things, in the meantime take your horse to the stable, and get yourself some food, and rest, one of my retinue men will escort you, so you may find your way." Edwin waves at one of his servants, motioning them to accompany Jerald. Once they would be out of the room Edwin turns to his advisers, speaking. "I want your thoughts on this matter, the letter read Sir Moulton of Stoncrest has rebelled against the Lord Stromwood, turning the villages Stoncrest and Woodwick against him. The troubling issue is that Lord Stromwood has ordered me not to parley with the rebels, which concerns me. This is a knight we are dealing with, albeit a traitor. Still, I wish not to go into such matters blind. I am seeking your trusted aid. There are a few issues we must contend with."

  1. How long would it take to ready our men? How many men do we need to leave garrisoned here at Harhold?
  2. How long is the march to Bannon, the rendezvous point with Lord Stromwoods serjeant.
  3. If possible, could we levy men from the villages? Will smallholders fight? Will they want payment? How long would it take to prepare them?
  4. Against rabble, and those described equipped forces, how would our retinue, bolstered with the riders, fare against them?
  5. Should we seek further parley with the rebels? Should we seek parley with the Lord of Stromwood?
 
Last edited:
Sir Borren seems skeptical of the matter. "I saw Sir Moulton at the Battle of Hershenbrook, he led the dangerous charge into the enemy spearwall in the name of Lord Stromwood without second thought. As merely a promoted common man, I don't know what's appropriate to say about other lords and sirs around the table, but in my opinion, Lord Stromwood wronged that man greatly for how little he repaid him. That, is perhaps, why he is rebelling."

"But why does it matter?" Master Janess says. "Wronged or not, Sir Moulton is not a proud enough fool to take on Stromwood's armies by himself; he'd have to have a very good reason for doing all of this."

"I agree," the master's cousin, Father Justus replied. "Though, perhaps something connected to the darkness surrounding our current events, has stirred something within Sir Moulton. The weather seems like an unholy omen, and times like this are when the Abysm can gain control of men."


Your advisors tell you that it will take around an 8 hour march to Bannon.

"We could probably get away with leaving 10 or so men behind," Master Janess says. "But we're still relatively vulnerable, since that's a skeleton crew. If we want to be extra certain of our keep's safety, we should leave behind more. As for raising men from the villages, we can probably gather what smallholders we can, and get another 50 good men with proper weapons. If we send them home in less than a week, they probably won't start grumbling about pay. If we were to place a general draft upon our serfs," he adds, "we could probably raise over a hundred rabble. They would be hard to control, and we couldn't give them any complex orders. Regardless, we may not have to place a levy; our retinue and reinforcements alone may be able to do the trick," Janess says.

"Maybe, if they scatter fast," Sir Borren says. "But sometimes peasants can be hardier than that, and I know from Guy Edban's rebellion. If they're motivated enough, they can put their numbers to good use."

Janess nods. "Fair point, Sir Borren. As for parleying, I honestly do wonder what Sir Moulton is thinking, for this is all very uncharacteristic of him," your steward murmurs. He continues. "Regardless of what we do, we risk angering Lord Stromwood, because if we spend precious daylight going to seek him out, he may be angered at our reluctance to engage. If we do parley anyway, we should be discreet."
 
Last edited:
Edwin takes the advice of his councilors, then speaks.

"If the Baron calls us we must obey that vow, but we will go carefully, and not act without at least some sort of knowledge on this issue. We shall take part of our retinue here, leaving a slightly bolstered defense. Sir Borren shall attend me, while you two manage the keep, and any issues which may arise. We will gather the smallholders in Bornbarrow and Jayhill, and then consolidate in Stromroad, where we shall gather the smallholders there too."

Edwin pauses, collecting his thoughts.

"I will march to Bornbarrow and meet Sir Destrin, rallying our forces there, Sir Borren, you shall ride for Jayhil with what horses we have, and men to ride them, and a scroll writ in my hand and with my seal, calling up Sir Pembry, and the small holders there. I ask this, as Jayhil is a further march, so hopefully we may meet together at Stromroad within close time to each other. Should you arrive early in Stromroad, I shall have another scroll for Sir Hywel, so he may began gathering the small holders there too. Once we have consolidated our forces we shall meet with our knights there. Let me do the talking, if the knights pester you with questions tell them that I personally wish to speak to them about it, as I owe them that courtesy as their Lord, but that it pertains to our duty as the chivalric men of the Baron.

"In the meantime we will need to gather our retinue here, if there are no further questions my dear council, I say we break. And if one of you could, fetch the horsemen Jerald, we shall send him back to his lord with news we plan to march to the rebel forces. I do not wish to keep his company, as I can not trust the man."

While his council broke, Edwin would issue a few further commands, while penning up the scrolls for Sir Borren to carry, giving them to him, also writing a scroll to the Baron, confirming that his orders are understood, and being swiftly executed.

  1. Send the rider Jerald back to the Baron, with a scroll stating we are marching for the rebels, explaining that it is simple in nature, for fear the rebels may intercept it.
  2. Prepare: 8 Heavy Footmen, armed with spears. 6 Footmen, armed with spears. 7 Heavy Archers. 9 Archers. Have them presented in the court yard to be addressed by Lord Edwin
  3. Have 5 footmen mounted, to accompany Borren to Jayhil
  4. Have provisions prepared for the retinue, and have Sir Borren tell those men in Jayhil to bring provisions as well, as shall be done in the other villages.
 
Last edited:

With no further questions, the meeting breaks. Your advisors begin to fulfill your intents.

Father Justus produces a scroll of parchment, writing down your words to the Baron. He ties it up, and stamps your emblem with sealing wax, before handing it off to the herald. His horse is treated with poultice and linen bandaging to the best of your stablemaster's abilities. It is judged the horse is good enough to make it back to the keep, so Jerald departs.

Master Janess orders the maidservants to begin packing provisions, while Sir Borren ensures that the retainers heed your summons. They quickly file into the keep's armory, grabbing a number of dusty spears from the racks. The archers don their gambesons and strap their long daggers to their belts, before slinging their bows and quivers. Your retainers are waiting for you in the courtyard... Sir Borren hollers for the conversations to cease when you step into view. "My lord," Sir Borren greets, the lineup quickly bowing. He also has his five good men ready to accompany him to the stables.
 
"You must forgive me," Edwin speaks, slight hesitation in his voice, quickly turned to a deep call towards his muster. "You must forgive I am not my Lord Father, he always had a roaring speech for his good men!"

Edwin pauses, allowing the expected cheers and whistling to quiet down,

"We are being called forth by the Baron, there is trouble among the peasants in Woodwick and Stoncrest. A local knight by the name of Sir Moulton has rallied them against Stromwood, and it is our duty to heed our lords call for aid. I do not expect terrible bloodshed, as god-willing they will be rabble who will disperse quickly. I do not know why Sir Moulton has rebelled, but I know we are duty bound, and of good stock, truly some of the Barons best if he trusts us with this noble task. We prepare to march for the morning, with some of you staying here, to guard the keep in our absence. I shall take the main part of the force to Bornbarrow, while Sir Borren and those of you with riding experience shall ride forth to Jayhill. We shall rally the freeholders from this village, and then meet at Stromwood, where the freeholders there shall join our force as well. I do not take our oath lightly, my father died in the service of the Baron, as we fought alongside Sir Moulton during the peasant rebellion, only for him to betray all that is righteous now. If not for me, if not for the Baron, fight men for my father, lest his memory and legacy be forgotten!"

This would conclude Edwins speech, he'd consult with his advisers, finalizing the plans.

  1. Prepare the soldiers and leave tomorrow, with the respective forces delegated, the now 4 mounted footmen for Borren, as well as two extra mounted men one in Edwins party, the other in Borrens to serve as herald. The main force shall carry with them whatever wagons, provisions, and supplies necessary, as advised by Edwins council.
  2. Ask the advisers if there are anymore matters to attend to before departing.
  3. Prepare Edwins armor in a wagon, to be donned on a future day, wearing only mail and gambeson for the time being for easy travel.
  4. Have the two heralds depart as soon as possible (hopefully today) to their respective villages with the scrolls calling for mobilization, so the freeholders may begin assembling before the arrival of Lord Edwin and Sir Borren in the villages. Then have them ride on to Stromroad to notify the knight there to rally those freeholders.
 
Last edited:
Most of your men have fought that same conflict, as it was little more than a year ago. The most recently sworn men to your service have no real connection to Sir Moulton, and seem to be eager for their first battle no matter what it is. Some of the men seem surprised or even disheartened at Sir Moulton's betrayal, but few men knew the man personally, and they are roused by your speech of duty and loyal tradition to the local barony. Your retainers respond with a hearty cheer as they are informed of the upcoming battle... but despite the tones of their voices, there is still a slight aura of unease, but that might just be the poor weather.


Your advisors ask if the bailiffs themselves should accompany the levies, or remain behind at their vilalges. It would mean at least one extra man of horse from each holding.

Once this final detail is sorted, the riders are dispatched to the villages. They should be back sometime this evening.

Your plated greaves, gauntlets, pauldrons, great helm, and jack o' plates are moved to one of the wagons.


Later today, after supper with your staff in the great hall, the heralds return with news that your villages will begin preparing their levies. Sir Hywel of Stromroad told your heralds that a man from the Rockstone Freehold was there earlier today, carting stone for a new well. He said that he heard from a man in Crowsby that there is a great deal of trouble going on in the great city of Aussux. However, the details were little; something akin to riots.

Your staff are paid their daily allowance by Master Janess, around 61 silvers for the (garrisoned) soldiers and household servants. Master Janess keeps track of the food stores, and with a daily ale allowance of 1 quart, around 15 gallons of ale are consumed among all the men. You and your officers drank a gallon of Valcayan wine today.
 
Last edited:
While enjoying his meal, Edwin knows it will be his last home cooked one for sometime, the kitchens had been preparing his food since he was a boy, and grown to know exactly what he did, and did not like. It was a luxury he appreciated greatly, so for this he paid special attention to the servants the last alms day, for all their hard work.

Edwin heeds the good news that his freeholders are assembling, but grows concerned over these supposed riots.

Something obviously isn't right... gloomy days, true knights turned rebels, rumors of turmoil in the capital, and now this? I will need to keep my ear open for any other unworldly news.

Before long Edwin grows tired, preparing to retire for the night, before this, however, he would go to Father Justus, speaking to him,

"Father, before we ride off tomorrow, I request you lead us in prayer. I can feel something is not quite right, the way the sun shines, chaos erupting from peace, it is all very unusual, and I worry about this. May you call upon the Emmortal to guide us in this task, Justus?"

After hearing his response, Edwin would go to his lordly chambers, falling asleep, in the morning his men would march.

  1. Have Father Justus hold a prayer before the men disembark.
  2. March forth from Harwood, to rally the soldiers, Lord Edwin shall first be headed to Bornbarrow, and Sir Borren and his riders to Jayhill, they shall meet in Stromroad to consolidate the host, and plan from there. Sir Borren is to only take the village reeve if the knight of Jayhill believes the village will be alright without him.
  3. Once arrived in Bornbarrow, Lord Edwin shall meet with Sir Destrin and his baliff, discussing if the baliff should join the host, or remain in the village.
  4. If there are no other pressing matters, Lord Edwin would march on towards Stromroad with his host of retinuemen leading the vanguard and freeholder levies making up the rear.
 
Last edited:
You retire to your chamber, and may or may not have had a particularly restful sleep. In the morning, you rise along with the merry men you plan to march beyond the safety of your humble castle.

Father Justus stands before you and your loyal men, delivering a speech bestowing the blessings of the supreme creator, Paragon Emmortal of the Hallowed Realm. "Paragon will always keep the righteous within His sights, and His eyes on their every deed. We will not know fear, for we know that a life lived righteously grants us the divine privilege of entering the Hallowed Realm. Whether we live or die, let us rejoice in His protective gaze, and let us be true to our vows and honors. So be it," the chaplain says, the last part being uttered by all those present.

The wagons are ready, your companions' horses are prepared, and the men are ready to march. It's been some time since they've donned their armor, but they look ready to go. You ride alongside Sir Borren along the peaceful valley roads of your lordship, until it is time to depart at the crossing between Jayhill and Bornbarrow. As you head up the road to the village, you see the desiccated carcass of a half-eaten deer on the side of the road. It's rather grisly, and the beast still seems to be alive. Just ahead, you see an armored Sir Destrin and the bailiff of Bornbarrow riding out to meet you.
 
Riding, Lord Edwin bids farewell to Sir Borren when he splits of for Jayhill. Continuing the march, Edwin spends much of his time taking in the landscape, keeping his eyes and ears open. With the village of Bornbarrow ahead, Lord Edwin rides forward from his host slightly a slight trot, his "whoa" slowing down his war horse. Edwin gazes down to the mutilated deer on the ground, its entrails leaking of blood, and stomach acid. He dismounts, producing a small dirk. "Poor creature... what has done this to you?" Skillfully, he tries to make a quick jab between the deers ribs, into the heart, carefully placing his dagger on the ratty patch of fur above his target. Should he succeed, Edwin would clean his dirk in the grass, calling out to a retainer,

"Have the men mind this poor deer, we'll let one of the small folk know to move it off the road later."

Edwin would remount, and await Sir Destrin.
 
You give the mercy of death to the badly wounded deer, your dagger sliding easily into the creature's flesh. Its eyes slowly roll to the back of its head as it slumps over. Flies are already gathering around the beast. One of your men nods after you call out to him.

Sir Destrin approaches with the bailiff of Bornbarrow, as well as his own young squire, a teenager in mail and equipped with the lance and sword of a man-at-arms. Meanwhile, the bailiff owns a simple mail hauberk and iron helmet, both with padded cloth underneath for greater comfort as well as protection. Sir Destrin, of course, is wearing his set of plate armor. All three men are turned out for war.

"Greetings, my lord," Sir Destrin bows, along with his companion. "We've raised twenty-eight men from the ranks of the smallholders and freemen. Nineteen good bowmen, nine spearmen." With Bornbarrow being a woodlands village, naturally most of them are archers. "We are almost ready to join your host, my lord."

1580599210330.png
 
"Sir Destrin!" Edwin calls to his knight, his horse stepping towards him. "You have answered my call with most haste, for that I thank you." Edwin raises his hand to his eyebrow, nodding and giving a slight salute. "The world seems full of strange news, tell me, is there any happenings here, or rumors you have heard? Sir Hywel has been told news that Aussux is in turmoil, riots and god knows what else plague her, and now this rebel knight too." Edwin allows the knight to answer. "At any rate, we have places to be. Sadly Sir Borren could you meet you here too, he is riding for Jayhil to gather our men there, ready your troops, speak with your baliff, if he is not needed her I would be honored he ride among us, we shall continue for Stromroad, where the host shall unite, and we shall hold a war council amongst our knights and baliffs."

Edwin finishes his conversation with the knight, making a few orders while the freeholders finish their preperations.

1. Have some of the village people move that carcus, give some coin for them as thanks from the Lord, and blessings of the Emmortan.
2. Let the retinue take a break, resting from the march to get some food and drink (water or watered ale).
3. Consolidate the host and march on, if no further issues present themselves.
 
Last edited:
Sir Destrin nods. "Aye, my lord. Things are starting to go more and more awry in these lands. My serfs have been terrified of the woods lately, saying that there is something going on in there. I am going to say it is peasant superstition... but it has even afflicted my dear bailiff. Now, onto Master Rorrey, the man humbly requests that his wife and daughters be granted access to the protection of Harhold, if he is to ride with us. He says that there is an ill omen going on," your vassal informs you.

The bailiff nods. "I hope it is not too much to ask of you, my lord. I would like to fight by your side with peace of mind."


Your men head into Bornbarrow for a short rest, being given some small ale and biscuits by the townsfolk. The deer is moved off of the path by a pair of young serfs, who are each paid a halfpenny.

Marching back to the road, you meet up with Sir Borren as he returns from Jayhill. He is accompanied by Sir Pembry and his young squire, along with about two dozen men. "There was a good turnout at Jayhill, my lord. Letting 'em know ahead of time let them get ready faster, but although none of 'em are shirking their duty, spirits don't seem all too bloody high, a lot of them are fearful of this weather, it seems."

Sir Pembry nods. "A few men approached me and asked not to go. The nerve," he says in annoyance. "It's not like we summon them very often. Either way, I am happy to report fourteen spearmen and seven archers, m'lord. Bailiff Nanton also rides with us."
 
Last edited:
Edwin addresses the two men, "We must continue to march forth to Stromroad, Master Rorrey, your wife and children may stay in the comfort of my keep, a token of thanks for your service. They may be asked to help with the daily tasks of the castle, but nothing unfit for a woman and her daughters." Edwin turns to Sir Destrin, "Your haste is appreciated in gathering these men, ready them up and have them prepare to march, I shall go meet with Sir Borren and Sir Pembry, just now arriving here." Edwin nods at the men, riding off to meet the other two knights. Before long Edwin is upon them, greeting the two, "Sir Borren, Sir Pembry, what a coincidence to chance upon you here today!" Edwin grins at his sarcastic remark. "Sir Pembry, I thank you for your presence here, once we gather the men at Stromroad we shall convene with the officers of our host, so I may further explain the happenings of late. Give your men some time to rest while Bornbarrow finishes their preparations, I will see to it they are fed, try to keep their spirits high. Sir Borren, return to our men, and start getting them together, we shall march soon."

Edwin rides off, preparing to march again, it has been rather auspicious of late, however the lord tries to keep this out of his mind. It has been too long since he has left Harwood, and riding in the open air is a thrill he is ill afforded with his position.

1. Have the men from Jayhil fed, and give them a moment to relax while Bornbarrow's levies finish their preperations.
2. See if there are any other strange happenings or rumors, from both hosts.
3. March for Stromroad.
 
Last edited:
Master Rorrey thanks you for your kindness, and make preparations for his family to be brought to Harhold while your men rest. Sir Pembry nods respectfully when you ride to meet him, and afterwards leads his horse underneath a crab apple tree to rest. Your host is soon on the move once again, marching towards the village of Stromroad.

Though the overcast sky still casts an unhappy shadow over the Harwood valley, the period of recuperation at Bornbarrow cheers the men up a bit. Many had relatives they were able to visit for the first time in awhile.
1580963941196.png

You and your men continue traveling down the road, and the forest seems to squeeze ever closer on both sides of the path. The woods are dark, and it puts the men on edge as they pass through. Eventually, the woods begin to thin, giving way to a clearing where Stromroad can be seen in the distance. On the outskirts of the village, you can see a gathering of bodies near one of the cottages.


Sir Hywel seem to be standing on the sidelines of a confrontation between two large groups of peasants, who have all armed themselves with an array of tools such as pitchforks, farming flails and foresting axes. Some carry bows, and look like smallholders. The men seem to have stopped shouting and overtly threatening one another for now, but only upon seeing the approach of your large group of soldiers.

"What is all this, eh?" Sir Borren instinctively places his hand on his sword, for this seemed to be an unpredictable situation.

Sir Hywel awkwardly moves his way over towards you, a nervous and indecisive expression upon his face.

Torman, Bailiff of Stromroad runs up to you quicker. "My lord," the man bows quickly. He is flanked by the reeve on one side and his son on the other. He looks fuming, sweaty, and in high passions. "Hear me out, my lord. Please! My daughter was cursed by the hag Matalda Raftcrass." He extends his finger towards the rival party, which look like it contains a dozen serf rabble and at least five archers of the Raftcrass clan. "The hag promised to treat my ailing daughter with her potions and herbs- she's kin to the vile alchemist in Jayhill, no less. But if you saw what became of my daughter afterwards, you'd know to hang that sorcerous woman!" Torman has a larger group of armed serfs behind him, though fewer bowmen.

A smallholder from the Raftcrass group calls out. "He lies! Our old mother is innocent of this. The gallows are not his to command," the archer cries.


Sir Hywel clears his throat. "My lord, I am having trouble mobilizing the men..."
 
SirEdwin.png

Edwin listens to the crowds, his first time raising his host without his lord father had yet proven decent, however things had turned for worse with this. Bad news plagued his mind, rumors of the capital and Aussux, dreary skies, and then supposed superstitions lurking in the woods.

Trotting forward upon his horse, the lordling roars like a bear to the crowd, hoping to internalize the command his late father once held.

"Silence!" his call echoes, hoping to have cut off the rambling men.

Edwin continues to speak, his voice becoming slightly lighter, and more calm, "This is no small matter of accusation, and do not think I take it as such. But yelling, and bickering, and standing against each other armed and ready for conflict will not solve this problem," Edwin says, enunciating each point with a crisp, critical tone. "We are Harwood men, not those superstitious folk from outside our land, not those who would harm their neighbor against all the teachings of the great Emmortal. Please," he bellows, a sense of his fathers sincerity echoing in his voice, "Allow me to help in this matter, and mediate this situation, and above all, help this poor afflicted girl."

Edwin pauses, turning to Sir Hywel, the mans insecurity irritating Edwin, but not to the point of outward expression.

"You will explain this situation to me now, and everybody shall listen. Then the two sides may have their chance to speak and give their matter on the subject, in the PEACE of your manors hall, armed only with their words," Edwin tells his liegeman hoping his stern voice beats sense into the man. The lord of Harwood looks over to Torman, speaking to him, "You will not interrupt Sir Hywel, and for this you shall be given a fair chance to express yourself before the good knights and bailiffs of Harwood, Jayhil, and Bornbarrow, faithful Torman," Edwin turns towards the Raftcrass clan, extending an arm towards them, "Furthermore, bring forth a representative of your of amiable clan, so you may too be heard on this matter," finally waving them over once he has finished speaking. "Both sides may allow witnesses in this trial to speak and listen to the proceedings of this court, for this duty I serve to you, we must not forget the duty we serve our Baron, let this trial be quick, and justice swift."

Edwin finishes his speech, turning to the three parties before him, Sir Hywel, the Bailiff, and the Raftcrass alderman, "You may bring men to this court to bear witness and testify to our lawful proceedings, but our good Sir Hywel's hall can only fit so many, I request no more than eight men per party. Should any man be armed they will not be allowed entry, and to enforce the King's peace my retinue shall stand guard within, and outside the estate. Further, the woman Matalda Raftcrass shall be present, however should she be allowed to speak is up to the fathers of Clan Raftcrass, as is your customary right." The lordling continues to talk, looking into the eyes of the bailiff, then the alderman as he does, "Disperse your men from here, and assemble your party for the trial, we shall convene soon. Bailiff, you and Sir Hywel shall lead my other liegemen and their bailiffs to your sick daughter, so we may witness personally her ails, as to better judge this court." Edwin clears his throat, speaking one last time, "Is anything I have said here misunderstood? We are afforded the luxury of the Kings Law, and the grace of the Emmortal, we shall use it in this matter, good Raftcrass you are dismissed back to your kin, bailiff, Sir Hywel, give me a moment, my host has marched a long way, to be bombarded with such affairs."

Edwin turns his horse riding to, Sir Borren, speaking in confidence, "Damn these people," the young lord utters, rubbing his chin, "You will need to prepare the men. See to it that Sir Hywel's manor is guarded and prepared for a trial, and have the freeholders time to break. At this rate we will be lucky to march for the morning, it will have been three days since our call from the Baron, we'll be lucky to reach Bannon by the end of tomorrow now. It doesn't matter, we can't fight rebels if we are fighting ourselves, meet with the sergeants to prepare the manor, they'll respect you more than any other knight anyway, and let the freeholders know they have time to rest,"

Edwin calls for his knights and bailiffs from the other villages, save for Sir Borren, returning to Sir Hywel and the bailiff of Stromroad. "Right then, we are ready to witness the girls afflictions."

  1. Have Sir Borren organize the retinue to occupy the manor house and prepare the trial.
  2. Witness the Bailiffs daughter's afflictions.
  3. Give the freeholders time to rest, presumably for the evening.
  4. Check the time, rather, look up at the sky and see roughly how late it is.
 
Last edited:
Many look on in surprise as your voice carries far. It was seldom heard until now. Your father's voice always boomed loudly during the rebellion of Guy Edban, just as your voice rings loudly in this new time of crisis.

Sir Hywel nods, seeming reassured as you speak to him. Now a knight at twenty years of age, he fought in all the same battles as your father, albeit as a squire. With the passing of his mentor due to fever, being the one now in charge of the domain seems to be... something he is still getting used to.

Your commands break up the crowds. Arrows are un-nocked, wooden sticks are thrown back onto the ground, and scythes are put back into their sheds. Nobody would dare oppose their liege lord, much less with his entire retinue at his back!


"I grew up among these folk," Sir Borren chuckles as you take him aside. "They believe in a lot of nonsense. Some of it has rhyme and reason to it, though... it's hard for lords and proper gentlemen to know how they think. A lot changes over generations..." He doesn't mention the fact that your noble house's forefathers also came from similar folk. "Aye, milord. I'll post men around Hywel's manor, make sure nobody can peer in and stir up trouble. I'll keep a close eye on those proceedins' as well."


The sun is still up, though it looks like it will be setting soon. It's hard to tell with the dark clouds how late it is getting, but it must be five or six hours past midday. Sir Hywel and his bailiff, Torman, glance at each other before beginning to lead themselves to the bailiff's homestead, nearby the manor. Torman, strangely, bends over to pick up a firm stick from the ground along the way, and makes sure to brace it as a baton as he pushes open the door to his home. Awkwardly tied up in the sleeves of various tunics and random bits of linen, is Torman's girl. She is gagged, but can be heard making muffled snarls as black bile oozes through the fabric. Her eyes are completely black, and she bucks and squirms. "My daughter," Torman suddenly sobs. "Paragon. Paragon! Why do I deserve this?" The man looks like he's about to fall to his knees.

Curious soldiers try to see what's going on through the windows and by leaning to see through the door from behind you, outside.
 
Edwin chuckles at his knights remarks, "You're right Sir Borren, this has been a stressful few days, being called up to battle, now this, you must excuse my temper. Let the freemen take the night and be ready to march tomorrow. Keep the retinue ready, should we require them," the lordling says, noticing the dimming light of day. Breaking off from the warrior Sir Borren, Edwin rides back with his other knights and bailiffs to Sir Hywel and Torman, following them to the homestead. Edwin gazes intently as the man grabs the stick, realizing soon it was for his own protection.

"By god.." he mutters, the black eyes of the sick girl staring into his own like an abyss, confusion and terror beginning to fill his being. Edwin steps back, obviously shaken at the sight, "I have seen enough of her, poor Torman, we shall- we shall leave her to rest," the young lord tells the party, stumbling about his words as he backs out of the door, "Torman, you speak truthfully, she is sick, and dearly so. I will do all I can in my power to help her, but first we must resolve the issue at hand, this trial. Please, good Torman, do not allow your emotions, and love for your daughter to cloud your judgement, if it was the Raftcrass woman or not I will help however I can, but do not condemn an innocent person to death over superstition," Edwin breaks off, issuing a few commands to his knights and bailiffs, "We shall convene for the trial immediately, Torman, gather your party, and have the Raftcrass made aware to meet at the manor, with the accused."

Edwin turns to Sir Hywel, taking him aside, "This is no easy situation you were given Sir, you must tell me what you know, does Clan Raftcrass have reason to curse a girl so? Is the Raftcrass woman even... capable of such things? You know more about these people than any of us here, if we make the wrong choice it will make our lives hell, your people will be unruly, and the levy, and all future levies will be hurt. Tell me, Sir Hywel, what do you make of this?"

While talking with Sir Hywel, Edwin and his host of horsemen continue to the manor, and prepare for the trial.
 
Torman collects himself enough to retreat back outside the house with the other men. You attempt to raise the issue with Torman [50%]. The man still seems deeply saddened, but he pays close attention as his lord has some close words with him. You see signs of guilt upon his face, as he looked over his shoulder briefly. "I just couldn't believe that my daughter would get so sick..." he croaked. [Success] "What if it's something... worse than the Raftcrass woman's ilk?" The man sighed. "Still, I must be sure... I will raise whatever questions I must of her, to see if she treated my daughter right, the ingredients she used..."


Later, you speak with the young Sir Hywel, who stops for a moment to think back after your questions. "Well, my kin around these lands have always told me that Raftcrass is not to be trusted. But to me, she doesn't seem to be capable of much besides making teas and ointments... I can't see her casting any spells on anyone. Yes, often times her remedies do not even work, but that doesn't mean they were poisoned," he tells you. "Yes... I want to fix my village's levy. Me and my men went around to call up the freemen, but they were preoccupied with their witchery silliness."

The trial is set up as you have ordered, with the appropriate security. Torman's crowd and the dreaded, backwater Raftcrass family assemble. People still conduct themselves civilly in the presence of your armed men guarding the procedures of the manorial court... Torman forces himself himself to be composed and asks sincerely several things of Matalda's treatment of his daughter. She says things that are often corroborated by her family, but also some third parties. She grew only what harmless herbs she had in her cottage garden, people never saw her wander into the woods to look for more dangerous plants. The bailiff nods... taking a deep breath. Though he seems to realize that the accusation ought to be withdrawn, it is clear he doesn't like Matalda, and wish she were available for blame. He seems willing to leave it up to his lord, however.

"My greatest condolences to you, good Torman. As their master, I have not noticed anything too disconcerting about these people, the good Raftcrass family. Some of us do trust herbalists and alchemy more than others, but I have not seen anything dangerous... What say you, your lordship?" Sir Hywel asks.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Users who are viewing this thread

Total: 2 (members: 0, guests: 2)

Similar threads

Auriel Maza
Multiple Settings The Architect Trial - IC
Replies
0
Views
79
Auriel Maza
Auriel Maza
Back
Top