Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones
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-> A Clover Blooms Red
#1: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Tue Jun 10, 2014 4:08 pm
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July 5th, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

Only six months ago Northmarch was full of nothing but poor smallfolk; today, Northmarch is home to a budding market. Many merchants have abandoned Ashford along the Cockleswent to enjoy less competition nearby in Northmarch only a day and a half away by horse. Never mistake, Ashford is the largest market in the Reach this far east, but now Northmarch is established and with one major coup on the horizon.

For the last month Maester Baelor has had to split his focus from the market to House Wyl and the invitation that was sent to Lord Aylen. After only minor negotiations, House Wyl's lord agreed to a visit. Two very important things were in play, a marriage between the scion of House Cloverwood, Lyonel, and Lady Tania Wyl, the niece of Lord Aylen and a girl he thought of as a daughter. Along with it came the brideprice; a trade route to Wyl would be established, and with it, a road into Dornish goods. It would be the first open trade route between Dorne and the Reach in twenty years since the sacking of King's Landing and the death of Elia Martell.

The times were busy too, for the men-at-arms of Northmarch. The scouts and new infantry required training, and two hundred men were too many for Ser Hamish and Captain Rod by themselves. Ser Jarl, Kalyon Solaris, Colin John, and even the Braavosi, Jenos Tero, were all enlisted to assist. Hevard Flowers, Lord Mikel's nephew and Lyonel's cousin had returned weeks ago with his health worse for wear. It was found he had been captured by a knightly house over some disagreement. It was not a surprise as Hevard had a reputation for vigilante justice. He had brought a family back with him, but any information on them was not to be heard from his lips. The septon, Ovryn, and Red Priestess had worked in concert to bring him back. This made Lord Mikel very pleased, but to did they bring back the heir of House Appleton, a young man named Daren. He was captured with Hevard, and as it happened, was on his way to Northmarch just the same. His goal was to ask for the hand of Lady Wen, who when he arrived was long departed from Northmarch. Letters from Highgarden confirm her with a position among Lady Margery's Ladies-in-Waiting.

Ashlee spent her days with the maester, giving him secrets she had found about House Musgood's financial records which were dubious. Otherwise, the realm was quiet. House Musgood laid dormant and did not overtly threaten House Cloverwood, which everyone knew to mean absolutely nothing. The Conclave of Maesters had not sent any correspondence to Maester Baelor. It could mean they were doing nothing, or still decided, or even yet, had already done something but not informed him. Freila split her time with Maester Baelor and her brother, Ovryn. She learnt a lot from the maester and the schemes of these noble houses, but also the faith of the Seven from her brother.

[x] [ OOC ]
#2: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Tue Jun 10, 2014 4:19 pm
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Today it is a warm autumn day. The last week had brought a great deal of thunderstorms in from the Stormlands and had turned the roads muddy. It had undoubtedly delayed the Wyl envoy northward, but now the roads were dry enough to pass easy. Lady Tania showed her excitement to Lyonel, and although it was never said aloud, she knew what it all meant. The girl seemed happy enough for it, taking daily rides with Lyonel who had replaced his sister, Wen, as her riding partner. Jenos was never much pleased when he had to give over his duties to Colin while they were away. The Braavosi was truly terrified of a horse and would be of no help as his master's guard. Luckily, nothing ever came of it, save Colin having to listen to two young people in love talk, flirt, and laugh.

Lady Gwyn and Glenda, the head servant, had everything ready in the castle. Baelor had everything prepared when it came to the market. Security fell to various figures, mostly though, the constable Hevard Flowers was keeping everyone in line. He had help from various household knights, men-at-arms, and sellswords.

[x] [ OOC ]
#3: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Tue Jun 10, 2014 4:32 pm
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Maester Baelor sits in the ground floor study in Castle Cloverwood in his best robe, going over some accounts for the marketplace. Normally he would do this up in his solar or perhaps Lord Mikel's solar. But given the importance of the visitors arriving today, he didn't want to run the risk of his leg delaying his arrival at the official greeting.

At the moment he's tallying tax revenues from the market, and the numbers please him. Given the desperate state of the house's finances when he arrived, it was nice to see them finally accumulating a small gold reserve in case of unexpected expenses. And that was with the addition of more household troops, he reminds himself. Yes, the finances were doing well.

But even as he focuses on the accounts. Baelor keeps an ear open for news of the arrival of their guests. There was nothing more important than making a good impression with them. And he intended to do his very best.
#4: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 10, 2014 7:30 pm
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Lyonel is in his room cooling down from his ride with Lady Tania. It has turned into his favorite part of the day even if he misses Wen. Laying on his bed is something wrapped in a blanket. Lyonel knew what it was , he had been waiting a while for it. It was a fine as he had prayed for and hoped it would be suitable. Sticking his head out into the passageway he stopped a servant "Find my squire and have him meet me in the yard quickly. " With that said he checks his blade on his hip then picks up the bundle and heads down to the yard.

He smiles at Mary the washing girl on his way down. Ending in the yard he watches his fathers army, his army drill. They have turned into well disciplined troops largely with thanks to Ser Hamish, but many others deserve praise as well. He has spent a lot of time training with the recruits working to build up a bond. But now he waits the bundle in his arms.
#5: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Tue Jun 10, 2014 7:42 pm
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The servant bows low to Ser Lyonel, turns, and sprints down the hallway. He searches for Colin John, and once he finds the squire he delivers the message to meet Lyonel in the yard immediately.
#6: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Shurijo,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 11, 2014 7:15 am
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Colin is sitting atop of the town's wall looking northwards. The young man has spent most of his time there since his return to the town. He looks out and away from Northmarch and towards faraway towns. When the servant finally finds him, he doesn't reply and merely nods his head at the instructions and slowly lifts himself up and walks back towards the castle.

The squire's walk seemingly takes forever to reach the castle, and unlike before when he frequented the castle and Cloverwoods, he's now rarely seen in the castle unless by summons of Ser Lyonel. He walks with his head low and kicking pebbles along the way. As he reaches the castle entrance, he lifts his head long enough so that the guards can see who he is and then he proceeds up the stairs to Lyonel's room.

Approaching the room, he stands in the doorway and knocks with three taps on the door frame. Looking into the room, he finds it empty and realizes that the servant had said to meet Lyonel in the yard, so he turns and walks back down the stairs and out into the adjoining yard to the castle.

He walks towards Lyonel, lifting his head to survey the yard. "My lord, you summoned me?" he asks.
#7: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TrueStag,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 11, 2014 11:52 am
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Ovryn hurried to Northmarch's gate when he heard that his guest had arrived. With permission from the lord he'd sent for the head septa of the Motherhouse called the Garden of Virtue, west of the Northmarch lands. It was more than proper than Freila had a chance to meet someone of the Faith besides Ovryn himself and start to lay the pavement on her road to become a formal septa, and perhaps allow her to make a contact or two along the way.

[x] [ OOC ]
#8: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: StubbsPKS,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 11, 2014 3:34 pm
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Jenos stands silently against the wall in the yard with Lyonel awaiting the arrival of his squire. Since the return of his charge, Jenos has found himself feeling more useful around the Castle even if that just meant accompanying Ser Lyonel as he goes about his business.

The Braavosi leans against the smooth stone wall, casually looking around and watching the various servants as they travel through the yard focused on whatever their current task may be. Without even realizing it Jenos smiles slightly at the fact that things around Northmarch had returned to normal.
#9: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Wed Jun 11, 2014 4:56 pm
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Over the last few months, Timon has been seen less at the brothels and more around Jenos and Ser Hamish. Both have said he is making strides with the blade. There have been some talk that he and Colin John should start training together, but as of yet, Lyonel and Ser Hamish have kept the two separate. Timon stands next to Jenos, "You see how he has them split their formation in two, but fans them out. It is to protect from archer volleys from afar." Timon smiles at his own knowledge.
#10: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Wed Jun 11, 2014 5:11 pm
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Freila approaches Baelor and, holding out a letter, says, "Maester Baelor, this just arrived by way of a raven. It's a bit odd--it's a plain green seal, with no sigil on it. Maybe someone doesn't want others to know who sent this message, in case the raven got captured?" She adds, "And don't worry. I took care of the raven and it's now in the rookery, enjoying a well deserved rest."
#11: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Wed Jun 11, 2014 5:46 pm
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Hevard watches the men-at-arms slash and stab at the stuffed dummies. Some had skill, some had speed, some had brute force. Few could combine the three into a warrior.

Hevard notes the men saluting someone behind him with petty bows. He turns lazily to note Lyonel behind him. He rapidly turns around to the men.

He raises his voice to a thunderous roar "Got time to salute do you? If a man swings a sword during battle, will you BOW them do death? Your lord's heir will surely be safe then! If you wish to bow and scrape, go see the septa and lady's handmaidens, NOW SHOW ME HOW TO SWING A SWORD!"

After his little speech Hevard turns back to Lyonel and gives him a sly smile.
#12: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 11, 2014 7:59 pm
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Lyonel stands in the yard with his bundle in his arms as Colin seems to be lost in thought and doesn't notice him at first . Lyonel intercepts him stopping him. "Colin don't call me Lord its just us, no one else is paying attention. I got you something. I never got to properly thank you for saving Wen's life. Our family owes you a tremendous debt, I owe you a tremendous debt and one day I hope to knight you. To that end...a knight must know the sword, and so its time to start training you. You are extraordinary with a bow, but it cannot solve all your problems. Sometimes you need a proper blade." To that end he hands Colin a blanket.
#13: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Bohemond,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 11, 2014 9:34 pm
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Ser Jarl finishes combing his courser, Cedarmane. The trip is merely a courtesy, but the old knight wants to meet the Wyl delegation on a courser. Ser Jarl has spent his command drilling his infantry. The knight has been difficult, manipulating his men to view him as their favorite drinking buddy and worst fear, even if they should charge the Stranger. The Valeman is known for rewarding his best recruits with cider and women, then pushing them twice as hard the next day.

The Knight of Three Pines smirks to himself as he mounts up. He realizes he needs a proper squire. The Appleton lad, Ser Jarl thinks. The lad is soft, too old to not be knighted, but Ser Jarl likes him. He is clever, and with training may be something impressive. At the very least, Ser Jarl will be a better mentor than Ser Hamish and his slice / smash training that he has subjected Colin to.

Past this, Ser Jarl is pushy. He interrupts Rod's practice for an unannounced footrace, allowing the ten fastest men in the scouts to join the escort. The knight has no qualms about coercing men to join him by whatever means.

Last edited by Bohemond on Thu Jun 12, 2014 5:10 am; edited 1 time in total
#14: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 12, 2014 4:17 am
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Daren approached Ser Hevard with a smile - he'd regained the spring in his step since their mutual capture and he was now dressed in the greens, golds and reds of his home lands The sword that had been his companion on the journey had since largely rested in the small chambers he'd been granted on his arrival.

"Good day, Ser Hevard. Keeping well, I hope."
#15: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Shurijo,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 12, 2014 6:52 am
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Colin holds his arms out to accept the wrapped item. As the item is given to him, he nods his head in thanks to the Cloverwood heir. Seemingly speechless, he glances down at the item and then back up to Lyonel.
#16: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Thu Jun 12, 2014 7:28 am
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July 5th, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

The item is wrapped securely, but whatever is inside is long and heavy. As Colin pulls it open, he notices first the hilt of a sword. It is not surprising that this is what the gift is, Colin guesses, but this appears to be ornate. The top of the hilt is fashioned into a closed clover, which gives the hilt substance and style. As he explores it further, the scabbard is a green dyed leather, soft and supple.

As Colin draws it out, he can tell the quality of the longsword, even though he is no expert on the matter. There's a mark at the top of the blade, which Colin isn't sure what

When takes the wrapped gift, he can tell what it is immediately. The feel of it, even wrapped, is clear. This is a sword. As he peels off the blanket, he first discovers the ornate hilt. The hilt is leather wrapped, like most blades, but the pommel is fashioned into the shape of a four leafed clover, a symbol of luck and House Cloverwood. The guard is turned out from the hilt unlike the sword Colin currently has, which is straight. Even a fool would know this might help parry attacks with more success.

The scabbard in which the blade rests is soft leather, dyed green, and with various images of clovers across it. Lyonel is almost jealous he does not have the same for Midnight. As Colin pulls the blade partially free, he can spot the blacksmith's mark, 'JW'. He had heard the new blacksmith in town was named Jon, the 'W' likely stood for the man's place of birth, which was rumored to be White Harbor in the North. It is an impressive, spectacular, gift.
#17: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Thu Jun 12, 2014 9:28 am
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"Odd," Baelor agrees, taking the note. "Hopefully the answer lies within." He cracks the seal, opens the letter, and starts reading.
#18: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Shurijo,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 12, 2014 10:10 am
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The squire looks surprised at the sword. His attitude has gotten even more glum and downcast as time has passed from their return to the town. The squire who was once a common sight in the yard and castle had chosen to remain in Northmarch and take much time with solitude walks in the surrounding forests with his bow and longsword.

Looking at the incredible and majestic sword that would bring a sparkle to any man's eyes doesn't seem to have a great impact upon the young man. While he is surprised and grateful for the kind words spoken by Lyonel, but even the words spoken of his actions only seem to entrench the man's distraction and forlorning. Peering at the letters carved into the blade, the blacksmith's initials, Colin can only be reminded not of something gained but only of something lost. The initials serve as an eerily reminder of something he did last summer, of carving similar letters into a well seasoned cherry tree in the heart of the forest near the town.

He pauses for a moment before looking back to Lyonel and saying, "I... Thank you, but I don't deserve this blade. It.. it is fitting for a high-born. I am not worthy to hold such an item."

Colin then offers the sword back to Lyonel.

Last edited by Shurijo on Thu Jun 12, 2014 11:26 am; edited 4 times in total
#19: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Thu Jun 12, 2014 10:53 am
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Ser Jarl finds that some of the scouts are already out in the field, south of Firemarch, awaiting for the first signs of House Wyl coming in from the Dornish Marches. There has been no scouts returning to alert anyone that House Wyl's entourage has been seen, with Firemarch about six hours away, the castle has plenty of time.

Ser Hamish is mostly drilling formations, while others such as Ser Jarl and Constable Hevard talk about swordplay. Jenos and Timon are watching, and Lyonel and Colin are off by themselves.

From the castle, Sandor of Firemarch walks in, "Hevard!" he calls out, "I have the duty roster for the rest of this month." He sighs, "We could use a few more guards, this market is keeping everyone busy."
#20: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Thu Jun 12, 2014 11:05 am
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"As well as can be expected, I guess." Hevard nods to the boy welcome. "Many of these men are fresh recruits and were no more skilled than you with a sword only a few fortnights back." He turns to face Daren. "How is YOUR quest going, with my cousin at Highgarden?"

As they talk, he spots Sandor waving him over to request new men. "More guards means less gold. I trust in your judgement lad, but I will need my uncle to approve this." He turns around and watches as Lyonel's squire is handing the heir what looks like a sword wrapped in cloth. "Or perhaps not...".

Hevard motions for Sandor to stay put and starts walking to Lyonel, waiting for a moment to adress the man.
#21: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 12, 2014 12:36 pm
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"It goes poorly, I suppose. With her not being here at all, it's hard to press my suit without travelling to King's Landing."

He smiles, shrugging. "On the other hand, it's hard for her to see what a sorry state I turned up here!"
#22: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 12, 2014 1:26 pm
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Lyonel is surprised by the response it is certainly not what he expected. He has a good idea of what is bothering his best friend. "No one deserves it more than you. I am fortunate to have such fine company here in Northmarch. We have knights that are true and soldiers that are brave. You are as brave and good as any of them, and have shown such time and time again. "Lyonel goes to unbuckle the squires current blade. "Buckle it on, try it. See how it feels in your hand and on your hip" Lyonel insists. "Then I think we should walk and talk. It seems like there is something to discuss."

Lyonel looks up from Colin and spots his cousin with a stranger. He waves at them and offers a smile glad to see they finally made it back.
#23: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Thu Jun 12, 2014 5:01 pm
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Freila watches with curiosity as Baelor reads the message. Part of her would like to read it over his shoulder, but she knows this would be very much out of line, so she waits with something less than patience, fidgeting with her hair, as he reads it. She knows full well that she may never find out the contents of the letter, if it is secret enough.
#24: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Bohemond,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 12, 2014 7:53 pm
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Ser Jarl finishes up with Cedarmane and decides to act on his impulse. The knight leaves the stables and seeks out Daren. When he finds Appleton, Ser Jarl clasps him on the shoulder. "Daren. I think we should talk," the knight says in a friendly tone. "You have been in Northmarch for quite some time. I know you came here to seek Lady Wen's hand." Ser Jarl smiles. "I think you are a promising lad. You have necessary talents for your future that are lost on some," he says, gesturing to various sworn swords.

"However, you need to become a knight. Not just in title, but in ability. There is no small measure of men in this castle to teach you how to slash and maim. But you will be a lord. You need guidance in other areas as well." The knight looks at the lad. "I would have you be my squire. You have natural talents for court life. I can temper that iron into steel. You would also do well to learn how to fight. I have fought battles. I have commanded men. In time, you could do the same. Lady Wen will return from Highgarden in time. I think you want her to meet you at your best. Lord Mikel will certainly appreciate his daughter having a husband who can defend her. So, Daren Appleton, will you accept my offer?"
#25: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Thu Jun 12, 2014 8:23 pm
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"Cousin". Hevard nods back to Lyonel, still not comfortable with all the sers, lords, ladies and other titles that occupy such places.

"There are drawbacks to the increased activities in and around Northmarch I'm afraid. The Smallfolk's Justice, it's gaining traction. The men are eager, some even have half a warrior's instinct about them and my lieutenants are doing their very best to raise the bar on them. But numbers don't lie and our current force simply won't guarantee the townsfolk's safety. I would like to request coin to recruit 30 new men."

Hevard silently curses Sandor for putting him in this position. He knew the lad had the right of it, he had made note of their numbers himself since his return from Harvest Hall and they could use some more. Here's to hoping Lyonel could help sway his father. "...my lord".
#26: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Shurijo,  PostPosted: Fri Jun 13, 2014 7:21 am
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Colin finishes buckling on the sword to his belt and nods his thanks once more to Lyonel. As Hevard approaches, the squire takes a step back to stand behind Lyonel and allow the two to converse without him standing in the middle of the conversation.
#27: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Fri Jun 13, 2014 9:49 am
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Lyonel smiles "I am glad to see you cousin. I was getting worried when it was taking you so long to come back. Man power shortage. " Lyonel scratches his chin "We have had a lot of those over the years. I tell you what let's meet with Maester Baelor tonight and go over the books, see if the house can afford it. If we can convince the Maester I am confident we will be able to persuade Lord Cloverwood. How does that sound Constable?"
#28: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Fri Jun 13, 2014 12:12 pm
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As Baelor reads the note just delivered by raven, his eyes widen in astonishment. He finishes the note, then scans it again to make certain he read it correctly.

"Ser Jaime Lannister has killed the King's Hand on the streets of King's Landing and has fled the city," he says in a somber tone. "King Robert has cast him out of the Kingsguard, and declared him outlaw, He is to be captured dead or alive to face justice for the murder of Eddard Stark. We're to mobilize our troops to make certain he doesn't slip through to the Dornish Marches."

Baelor stands and grabs his cane. "Go find Lord Mikel immediately and say that we've received a royal decree by raven. Ask him to meet me in the small meeting room right away. Give the same message to Ser Lyonel, but don't seek him out until you've delivered the message to Lord Mikel."

With that, Belor folds up the message, puts it in one of his sleeves, and moves toward the door.
#29: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Fri Jun 13, 2014 1:08 pm
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Freila's eyes goggle out of her head at the news, then she turns around and dashes off, stopping to ask servants along the way where they had last seen Lord Mikel. If she's lucky and discreet, maybe she will get to sit in on the meeting where the maester, the lord and his heir decide how to handle this summons, surely something of a headache for them.
#30: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Fri Jun 13, 2014 1:16 pm
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He nodded as Ser Jarl approached, listening to his proposal as he tried to keep the fear from his face and the response that he knew had to come. He hated violence, hated the thought of sweaty pursuits like swordplay.

"I can hardly refuse such a generous offer, Ser. But... aren't I slightly old for a squire? Surely you'd prefer a younger lad to teach?"
#31: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Fri Jun 13, 2014 1:25 pm
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July 5th, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

Freila rushes to find Lord Mikel. She asks around with the local servants. No one has an exact reply, as no one really knows. The best best is the Lord's Solar. Mikel has not been spending as much time there as in the past, but it is the best bet without searching the entire castle. Freila climbs the stairs and makes for the solar; when she arrives, a guard is posted outside his door as usual. He looks down at Freila, "Girl," he says, "What is it?"
#32: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Fri Jun 13, 2014 3:01 pm
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"That will do." Hevard thanks the young Lord and goes back to give Sandor the news. "I will make the case for Lord Mike as soon as we speak with the maester." He moves back to the men where he spots Jarl speaking with Daren. "Are you filling the lad with delusions of grandeur ser?" He pats the knight on the shoulder.
#33: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Fri Jun 13, 2014 8:56 pm
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Once his cousin walks off Lyonel turns back to Colin. "Ready for that walk now?"
#34: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TrueStag,  PostPosted: Sat Jun 14, 2014 3:40 am
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[x] [ OOC ]
#35: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Sat Jun 14, 2014 7:30 am
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Ashlee had spent most of her time mulling over the accounts and numbers, insisting that Baelor explains their meaning in return for sharing. Now that matter had been completed, she feels the need to do something, not bothering with hiding her opinion about Baelor's line of inquiry through the conclave. That group of old men would do things slow, and their authority did not reach any further than taking away Gromwell's chain.

Perhaps if she could formulate her own plan of action and present it to Lord Mikel? But if she did, should she maybe attempt to win Lyonel over first? The line of thought is interrupted by the sight of Timon and Jenos as she turns a corner, she had succeeded in avoiding the younger brother for the most part since returning, not that she had put much effort into that, occupied with other things as she had been. And strangely enough, so had he. Curious that, or maybe uncle finally had realized that getting beaten up by training swords might do him some good.

Ashlee does not allow curiosity to get the better of her as she continues her walk in the direction she had intended, past the men and towards wherever she fancies. A fleeting thought about what Martyn thinks about following around like a shadow when going nowhere in particular does amuse her, the man's grunts are difficult to interpret.
#36: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Sat Jun 14, 2014 12:52 pm
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Quote:
Freila climbs the stairs and makes for the solar; when she arrives, a guard is posted outside his door as usual. He looks down at Freila, "Girl," he says, "What is it?"

Freila says to the guard, "I have an urgent message from Maester Baelor for Lord Mikel. Is His Lordship within?"
#37: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Bohemond,  PostPosted: Sat Jun 14, 2014 3:35 pm
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"Perhaps for some," Ser Jarl replies to Daren. "But I've heard of squires who've grown into old men before being knighted. I assure you that won't be the case for you."

The knight is interrupted by Hevard's approach. By all acounts, the man was skilled in combat, and was likely true from what he saw in the training yard.

"I was offering Daren a job. As my squire, in fact. He is to be a lord someday, and a knighthood would go well to further his prestige." The knight returns his gaze to the boy, awaiting his answer.
#38: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Sat Jun 14, 2014 3:39 pm
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"I have no choice but to accept your most generous offer, Ser." His face was frozen into a smile, hoping against hope that his friend Hevard would find some clever way to release him from this.
#39: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Bohemond,  PostPosted: Sat Jun 14, 2014 4:11 pm
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"Excellent!" Ser Jarl says, patting Daren's shoulder. "Don't worry, being a squire it's not as bad as you might think," he says, pointing to Ser Hamish undoubtedly haranguing the troops. "First, we'll need to figure out what your good at. There is a weapon for every man and we need to find out what yours is. Some men swing axes, some men shoot bows, the Braavosi has his blade. We'll find something suited for you."
#40: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Sat Jun 14, 2014 4:17 pm
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"Well, I'm not very skilled with blades... or hammers... or... bows... Is there any other kind of weapon that I could possibly try? Can one be a squire without having to fight?"
#41: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Sat Jun 14, 2014 5:22 pm
    ----
Hevard is not the least bit happy with this, the boy has no business starting his career as a fighter at nineteen years. "There are many paths you could take Daren, not all of them need lead to the blade or any other weapons. Don't let talk of honor and glory mislead you, what you would become is a trained killer...and I'm sorry to say not a very good one. And unskilled knights often turn up dead long before their time, which is short enough as it is."

Hevard turns to the knight. "Ser Jarl, allow me to speak with Lord Mikel regarding Daren. Perhpas there are other ways for him to apply himself. Being an heir means he has more choices than perhaps was the case for you and me."
#42: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Bohemond,  PostPosted: Sat Jun 14, 2014 5:42 pm
    ----
Ser Jarl's eyes narrow as Hevard intercedes to take his squire from him. "You and me? It would be a mistake to compare ourselves, bastard," the knight says, his tone remaining polite and formal even though the words are dripping with antagonism. "And you don't need to be a knight to be a trained killer. You of all people should know that. This isn't about honor or glory. This is about the boy's future, and his family's. You can choose to thumb your nose at fancy titles, but Daren cannot ignore it. It's the world he was born into, as was I. As a future lord, he is more bound than I."

The Knight of Three Pines's face softens a bit. "The boy will likely never face an enemy without a retinue of men between them. He can't hide in the keep with the women either. If the Reach were to call their banners, or neighbors raid his lands, he will have to answer, trained or otherwise."
#43: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Sat Jun 14, 2014 5:47 pm
    ----
Hevard sighs. "Men like you bore me. But you are right ser..." Hevard gives the title an venomous undertone. "While you are a knight, I AM a killer. So be glad we are on the same side."

The morning, oh so promising a moment ago, makes Hevard hunger for the warmth of Margo's embrace and a bottle of mulled wine. He pats Daren on the back. "This is your choice lad. If you really want to do this I will give you all the help you need. Just don't do it because if you think that it is something required or expected of you. Do you want me to speak with my uncle on your behalf?"
#44: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Sat Jun 14, 2014 8:06 pm
    ----
The knight and the constable go back and forth. Both have been tested by blood over the last few months. The pissing contest over Daren Appleton's position as Ser Jarl's squire seem to bring a bit of animosity in the two men.

Ser Lyonel and his squire, Lyonel, take a stroll on the outside of the yard after the presentation of Colin's castle forged steel gift.

Meanwhile, upstairs, Freila asks the guard as to the Lord's whereabouts. "Aye, hold on," he opens the door, calls out that Freila is here and turns back. "Okay, make it quick." He opens the door and lets the girl in. Lord Mikel is shirtless, first off, seated on the foot of his bed. He's alone, but Freila notices someone else is under the covers. Lord Mikel waves her in, "What is it, girl. Has House Wyl's group been spotted?"
#45: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Sat Jun 14, 2014 10:06 pm
    ----
Lyonel walks with Colin once they are away from the keep he looks at Colin "Whats going on Colin, is it Wen?"
#46: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 2:57 am
    ----
July 5th, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

Daren's face hardened as Ser Jarl threw epithets in Hevard's direction. He let the two of them go at it without interrupting, but once they were done he took a single small step towards Hevard as he nodded courteously towards Jarl.

"It would appear that I need more time to consider your kind offer, Ser Jarl." In a tone as cold as a Northern Winter.
#47: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 10:39 am
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Quote:
Meanwhile, upstairs, Freila asks the guard as to the Lord's whereabouts. "Aye, hold on," he opens the door, calls out that Freila is here and turns back. "Okay, make it quick." He opens the door and lets the girl in. Lord Mikel is shirtless, first off, seated on the foot of his bed. He's alone, but Freila notices someone else is under the covers. Lord Mikel waves her in, "What is it, girl. Has House Wyl's group been spotted?"

Freila blushes at seeing Lord Mikel in this state and covers up her initial feeling of being flustered by dropping a very formal and proper curtsey. Once she's recovered herself, she says, "No, My Lord. Maester Baelor has received a royal message by way of the ravens. It's rather serious and urgent--I can give you the gist of it, but, ah ..." She doesn't want to repeat it in front of whoever might be in the bedsheets without the Lord's permission, but hasn't the foggiest notion how to put this politely. She will have to be satisfied with blushing again.
#48: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 10:59 am
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Lord Mikel holds up his hand, "I will be down, give me a moment." He stands up and walks over to his shirt that's crumpled on the floor next to the bed. "Summon Lyonel," he says, repeating Baelor's orders for the girl. "Is Baelor in his solar or downstairs?"
#49: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 12:57 pm
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"It seems the little lord has made his wish clear, ser. I thank you for taking an interest in his future, it seems it may lie elsewhere." He turns to face Daren. "Would you mind walking with me, lad?"
#50: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 1:10 pm
    ----
"Of course, Hevard." He nods to the Smallfolk's Justice, waving for him to lead the way.
#51: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Bohemond,  PostPosted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 2:06 pm
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"Well then, good day to the both of you," Ser Jarl says with a smile that resides somewhere between mockery and a predator baring its fangs. He turns and goes on own way. Probably for the best, the knight thinks, someone so easily cowed into two different opinions could be cowed into betrayal. The Valeman does not consider the issue settled, but he has more pressing matters to attend, and finding a squire is one of them.

As the knight walks he thinks of who would be a good fit. Preferably highborn. Someone who is comfortable at court. Someone who can fight. Ser Jarl decides that there two viable options. One is Timon Cloverwood. He seems serious about his martial pursuits. However, he is being tutored by Jenos and Ser Hamish, and Knight of Three Pines doesn't want to risk antagonizing them, especially given he just gained two enemies before midday. The other choice is Talan Botley. The lad has seen battle, was a finalist in the archery contest, and seemed well suited for court. As an Ironborn, he may not care much for knighthood, especially from a man who fought for King Robert in the Greyjoy Rebellion, but it was worth a shot.

The knight looks for Talan as he approaches where Lyonel and Colin are.
#52: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 2:14 pm
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Enemies? Perhaps, though Hevard's never been friends to many. The gruff constable is having a difficult time dealing with the knights, nobles, and others in the castle, Ser Jarl is no exception.

As for Talan, he's not been spotted around the castle for several days. There's been no notices as to why, but he is certainly gone.
#53: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 3:03 pm
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Hevard, happy with how the situation resolved itself, walks with Daren through the practice yard. The men are still hacking the dummies in an orderly fashion, many having never met a moving target on a field of battle.

"Do not take offense at what I said. Your fellow lords and knights put too much value in martial prowess. Many of the most famous heroes from the stories won their glory at tourneys and single combat. A knight won't tip the tides of battle when he is facing thousands on a field. Just ask anyone who fought for the Mad King and now serve King Robert. And Ned Stark managed to break the siege of Storm's End without shedding a drop of blood. The Starks have held the north for thousands of years with next to no knights as their gods have no men to speak for them, as the seven do."

History lessons were not Hevard's strong suit, but he wanted the lad to know there were other ways of being a hero than with a sword.

"You are a lord's son, surely there are strengths within you, an area where you excel. Where would you see yourself if you were to serve another lord?"
#54: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 3:18 pm
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"I received tutelage from one of the finest Maesters in the sciences and arts. I speak some Valyrian and know all there is to know about keeping a holdfast or a castle. I briefly considered being a Maester myself, but father wouldn't allow it."
#55: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 3:29 pm
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"Really..." Hevard strokes his beard. "Sounds like you would make an excellent steward, which can be a great learning experience from a future lord. It is mostly books and numbers that make up a house, the rest is just ceremony." Hevard thinks on Baelor a moment, the man could most likely use some assistance while he is sharing the responsibilities of measter and steward.

"I am speaking with the measter tonight on a different matter, I will see if there is hope for you as well!" Hevard nudges the lord farewell and heads off to see his uncle.
#56: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Bohemond,  PostPosted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 3:52 pm
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Ser Jarl frowns as the realization that Talan is gone settles in. The knight's options seem to to be running out. He makes his way into the keep in order to speak with Lord Mikel. Hopefully, Talan's absence is temporary. If not, the Ser Jarl will have to hazard ruffling some feathers and offer to have Timon formally squire for him. The bastard had to open his mouth and make things difficult, he thinks to himself as he goes to seeks an audience with Lord Mikel.
#57: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Sun Jun 15, 2014 9:02 pm
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Quote:
Lord Mikel holds up his hand, "I will be down, give me a moment." He stands up and walks over to his shirt that's crumpled on the floor next to the bed. "Summon Lyonel," he says, repeating Baelor's orders for the girl. "Is Baelor in his solar or downstairs?"

"Maester Baelor is downstairs, My Lord," she says to him. "I will go find Ser Lyonel straight away." She curtseys once more on her way out, as much to cover up her own feelings of being flustered as out of politeness. She then hurries to the practice yard, where she suspects the heir to most likely be at this time.
#58: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Shurijo,  PostPosted: Mon Jun 16, 2014 7:06 am
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As Lyonel and Colin walk, Colin holds his head low as he seemingly inspects the blades of grass as they move away from the yard and towards the castle's exterior wall. The squire lifts his head up to respond to Lyonel and opens his mouth, but nothing comes out.

"I.." he starts and then he spots the Maester's young assistant searching the yard and heading towards Lyonel. "My lord, I believe someone is searching for you."

While he's not certain that Freila is looking for Lyonel, the only other possible explanation would be for the Maester, but he isn't likely to be on the yard at this time of the day. In fact, Colin is a bit relieved and hopes that the girl is searching for Lyonel, so he can avoid this discussion.
#59: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Mon Jun 16, 2014 8:08 am
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Lyonel looks up and spots Freila "Drat. Maybe she thinks the Maester went for a ride or something..." knowing that is not very likely. "We are not done with this conversation though." He looks at his friend "I miss her too." With that he lets his friend off the hook and heads over to the girl wondering what is going on now.
#60: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Mon Jun 16, 2014 9:21 am
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The yard is quite chaotic right now. Men drill in the field, causing it to be filled with new soldiers. It takes about five minutes for Freila to find Lyonel and Colin wandering off to the side of all the action. But find the heir of House Cloverwood she does.
#61: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Mon Jun 16, 2014 11:58 am
    ----
July 5th, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

Freila wipes the sweat from her brow, curtseys and says, "My Lord, a raven has brought Maester Baelor a rather urgent royal message. He and your father are meeting to talk about it and your father would like you present for the discussion." She clearly pauses about to say more, then refrains. There's too many people who might overhear things in the practice yard and it feels improper to tell Lyonel the news when she didn't have a chance to tell Lord Mikel. If pressed though, she will likely tell Ser Lyonel what is going on.
#62: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Mon Jun 16, 2014 1:16 pm
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[x] [ OOC ]

Lyonel nods and looks at Colin like what could be so urgent "Okay, we can talk later Colin." Turning to Freila " In the solar?"
#63: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Mon Jun 16, 2014 5:19 pm
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"No, My Lord," says Freila leading Ser Lyonel into the castle. "Maester Baelor is downstairs--I think he wanted to be ready when the guests arrived. I fear that their arrival may be upstaged by the king's message though."
#64: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Mon Jun 16, 2014 7:07 pm
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Lyonel is given directions to where his father is, and on the way, he walks alongside Hevard Flowers, his cousin, who has the same idea. Lyonel assumes Mikel is in the small meeting room on the first floor. As he leaves the yard and enters the castle, he spots his father entering the room.

Inside the room, only Lord Mikel and Maester Baelor is present. Mikel rubs his beard, which has grown longer the last few weeks, but has been maintained well. Mikel's limp is almost unnoticeable as vigor of his daily exercise has restored much him physically and mentally.

"Maester," he says as he enters, "What is it?"
#65: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Mon Jun 16, 2014 7:14 pm
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Hevard is strutting alongside his cousin but makes sure to enter behind him as they enter the meeting room. It strikes him that the three people he needs to speak with are conveniently placed in the same place. It then strikes him that these men are most likely meeting for a discussion he is not privy to.

"Pardons uncle, measter. I did not know you would be meeting, I will leave you to it. If possible, I would like to discuss something with the measter and yourself when you are finished." Hevard looks at his uncle then starts to walk out of the room.
#66: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Mon Jun 16, 2014 7:35 pm
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Lord Mikel looks to his nephew, then back to Baelor. He shrugs slightly, "Well, Baelor, can he hear what this message has to say?" Mikel does not seem overly concerned. "The constable should know things if he's to keep up with the security of Northmarch, after all."
#67: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Mon Jun 16, 2014 7:41 pm
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Hevard stops at the door and leans casually against the frame while he awaits the maester response. Penance is clasped to his back and uncomfortable to lean on but you would not know it by looking at him. He really should consider a short sword one of these days...
#68: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Mon Jun 16, 2014 8:58 pm
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Maester Baelor hands a folded piece of green paper to Lord Mikel. "This is a copy of the royal decree sent by the King and forwarded to me by Measter Graham, who is in service to Lord Mace Tyrell. Lord Mace wishes his bannermen to comply with the decree immediately."

Then Baelor looses the dragon by revealing what the decree says. "Ser Jamie Lannister has killed the King's Hand on the streets of King's Landing. He has been cast out of the Kingsguard and is wanted for the murder of Eddard Stark. King Robert expects Ser Jaimie to be attempting to escape back to the Westerlands, and wishes him apprehended dead or alive. The copy of the decree received by House Tyrell was signed in the king's own hand. There is no doubt about its authenticity."

"King Robert believes that Lord Tywin Lannister may send troops south toward King's Landing to aid in Ser Jamie's escape. Lord Tyrell has no intention of allowing this to happen. He has instructed House Cloverwood to deploy its troops to the south and cut off any movement through the Dornish Marches. We can expect more orders soon, but the deployment should begin immediately. Ravens travel faster than a man on horseback, but not by as much as I'd like. If Ser Jaimie is coming in this direction, he will be here soon."
#69: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Mon Jun 16, 2014 9:06 pm
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Mikel looks shocked. He takes the piece of paper without saying a word and reads it. It takes him a long time, as he probably reads it more than once. Afterward, he shakes his head and passes the note over to Lyonel. "This will mean a blasted civil war. By the gods." He pauses for a long time, places his hands upon the table and leaning forward. "This is not the way I wanted to greet House Wyl. This could ruin everything!"

He straightens, "Hevard, have Ser Hamish muster the men, all of them. Have the girl go with you, the maester's assistant. She can tell him what the note says if he thinks you are full of shit."

"The Dornish Marches would not be the most direct way back to the Westerlands," Mikel says, "That would be the Goldroad. I suppose Lord Mace is throwing a large net."

[x] [ Note ]
#70: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Shurijo,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 6:42 am
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Colin remains outside of the small meeting room waiting for Lyonel to return. He watches as Hevard leans on the doorway and listens into the conversation. The squire hopes the note has nothing to do with his friends or family and that it doesn't result in any bloodshed of his friends, but knows that whatever the note says it most likely doesn't have any direct impact upon him, his family, or the smallfolk of Northmarch.
#71: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 6:42 am
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Wandering further, Ashlee sees Hevard walking away from the Appleton heir. Well, getting to know the young man was something she should do, now a good time as any to do so.

"Good morning, Daren." she greets, they have been introduced of course, but little beyond that.
#72: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 6:52 am
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He bowed from the waist - respectful, without being obsequious. "Good morning, Ashlee. I trust you're well this fine day?"
#73: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 8:28 am
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"A bit bored, maybe, but otherwise yes" Ashlee is a bit amused by such formality, two moments too late realizing that her more casual attitude might put him at unease. "How about you?"
#74: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 8:33 am
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"It's... a refreshing change." He smiled cautiously. "There's not much of court to speak of back home. Here, there's so many people wanting your attention, wanting things from you. Don't you think?"

He seemed slightly nervous though was standing his ground, like a deer who's just scented something unknown.
#75: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 8:52 am
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"I grew up in Bronzegate, Lord Buckler's court is somewhat larger than my uncle's, I honestly have not given the subject much thought, it's always been like that." Curious though, how an heir would be so sheltered from the things he one day would need to master. "But you will one day sit on your father's seat, that would ordinarily be accompanied by quite a few expectations, no?"
#76: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 9:17 am
    ----
July 5th, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

"Of course. Just because I've not experienced much of them up until now doesn't mean I'm ignorant of them." He smiles carefully. "I hope there's many years until my father dies, until then I hope to refine my skills so I'm an effective lord when the time comes."
#77: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 10:12 am
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"But nobody there wanted things from you?" Ashlee found it odd that would change, but stranger things did happen among the nobles of Westeros.
#78: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 10:17 am
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He shook his head, slightly bemused. "Why would they? They ask my father from me. The only people that have ever asked me for anything until I came here were my maester and my father."
#79: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 10:50 am
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Lyonel is shocked. "The Kingslayer strikes again. King Robert loved the Hand, everyone knows that. Lord Tywin will not want anything to happen to his son but do you really think he would risk war with the Crown?" Lyonel seems to want to say more but looks around and remains quiet.
#80: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 10:56 am
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Lord Mikel gives a short shrug, "I do not know, but we have our orders, I suppose. I hope the new men are ready. See to it," he says to Lyonel, "Muster the men and prepare to head south."
#81: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 11:00 am
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"Lord Mikel wanting you to prove yourself?" Ashlee does not think anyone else had that much interest in Daren.
#82: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 11:04 am
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Freila waits outside the room where the Maester Baelor, Lord Mikel and the others meet, standing near Colin. She looks like she wants to say something to Colin, thinks better of it, and then begins fidgeting, twisting and un-twisiting her hair around her fingers.
#83: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 12:17 pm
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Lyonel nods at Lord Mikel. "This might provide us with an opportunity to dispose of our Musgood problems as well. Accidents happen..." Lyonel leaves that thought out there. Then turns to make ready the troops striding out of the door as he passes Colin "Fall in when have to make ready the troops. There may be war." Lyonel strides down the hallways out into the yard. Once there he approaches and gathers the Knights Hamish, and the others running drills.
#84: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 12:20 pm
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"If you'll forgive me, Lord Mikel," Baelor says with a bow of his head, "I need to relay this message to Eagle's Roost with all due haste."
#85: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 12:42 pm
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"Oh, I've... not yet met Lord Mikel." He nods. "Not really, just a quick introduction when I first arrived. Ser Jarl wanted to take me on as a squire but... I don't think it's for me. I believe my friend Hevard is going to try and put in a good word for me so I can find something more suitable to my talents."
#86: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 1:21 pm
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"You are too old to have much benefit from being a squire." Ashlee agrees. "But knighthood is highly valuable for a future lord in the Reach, lack of it will make you face obstacles, may even be what keeps you from securing Wen's hand." she thinks out loud. She doesn't say that most would find it neglectful of Lord Appleton not to have his son serve as page and squire at Highgarden or some other place of prominence. "I do not think squiring for a Valeman from a house that nobody this far south has heard of would be the way you would wish to achieve it, however."
#87: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 1:27 pm
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He sighed. "If that is the case, it will be disappointing. But I fear I'm too old to begin my career as a knight now. All I can hope is that I can find competent warriors for my own household to cover the... gaps in my own education."
#88: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 2:13 pm
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Before he can say or do much he watches as both the maester and Lyonel leaves the room, and he is left alone with his uncle. If the lords of the land are about to go to war, men are unlikely to be joining a constabulary and more likely to go off and die in battle. Hevard would be lucky to keep the men he had now. Dark wings, dark words indeed...

"Uncle...a word?"
#89: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Bohemond,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 3:33 pm
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"I assure you, Lady Ashlee, House Vantri is not so minor," Ser Jarl says, joining the increasing group of people waiting outside the meeting to speak with someone. "Whether some do not know of it makes no matter. The house you seek to lead one day would have greater trouble being well known in the Vale. Well, it seems everyone has business with Lord Mikel. Seems a rather inopportune time for him to have a private meeting." The knight's nonchalant demeanor seems a swift change from the cold anger Daren had witnessed not minutes before.

[x] [ OOC ]
#90: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 3:43 pm
    ----
July 5th, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

"You need no great skill at arms to be a knight" Ashlee points out. "Some should be expected, yes, but a lord is not expected to fight. A lord is expected to lead and direct, and should thus know what fighting is, but he need not be good at it."

"And knighthood is merely a title, yet it implies many things beyond merely being a warrior. If being able to fight from horseback with sword and lance was all there is to it, then the number of Knights would increase tenfold. A proper knight knows to handle himself both the field of battle and the courts of lords. When a knight makes another, he vouches for the man he dubs on the shoulders, announcing to the world that he is ready for both."

A wry smile surfaces on her faces. "Though most knights are little more than well to be warriors, even the sons of lords, it is the illusion they build for themselves that is important. Ser Daren will command more respect than Daren, all because of a three word title with a worth that they all know to be hollow."
#91: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 4:02 pm
    ----
July 5th, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

"It seems from your theory then, that what is necessary to learn should not take the years that a squiring requires. I've already studied warfare and strategy."

"And from what I've seen, a knight knows very little about court other than service. In court it is ones wit and mind that needs to be sharp, not their blade. The truth is..." Looking from the girl to Ser Jarl. "...I do not have what is required to ever become a knight, not least the wish to learn such sweaty pursuits."
#92: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Bohemond,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 4:38 pm
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"Then I wish you well in your endeavor to become Lord Mikel's son-in-law," Ser Jarl replies pleasantly. The knight has no fear of men or women who think they are more clever than he. He wonders if Lady Ashlee is considering wooing the young heir. The Valeman knows that she has her eye on seizing her family holdings from Lord Yoran. However, Ser Jarl thinks that if Lady Ashlee weds before she has her lands, it will likely be a warrior, preferably from a house strong enough to lend the necessary swords to seize Faretown.

"So, any thoughts as to what they're discussing?"
#93: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 4:40 pm
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"All the more impressive if you were to learn them, then" Ashlee smiles encouragingly "Besides, what else is there to do when the lady is not present for courting?"
#94: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 4:47 pm
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Lord Mikel looks at Hevard, "What?" He does not appear that he's going to be easy to talk to just now. "You need to be helping with getting everything ready. Get your guards ready to defend the gates." He waves at his nephew, "We'll talk later, go, get to work!" Mikel waits for both Hevard and Lyonel to obey his orders.
#95: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 5:00 pm
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"Fine." Annoyed, Hevard waves all customs and slams the door shut behind him. As he exits the door, he sees Ashlee, Daren and Ser Douchebag talking.

"Well, looks like the realm will erupt and our troubles will have to wait." Hevard does not know if he was allowed to tell them the contents of the letter, but his uncle has left him in a foul mood and he could give less than a shit. "The Hand of the King was killed by the Kingslayer and the king put a price on his head." Hevard lays out the content of the letter to the waiting trio. "Ser Jarl, I suggest you report to Lyonel. Daren, I could use your help, will you walk with me?"
#96: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 5:11 pm
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And that is that.

Lord Mikel nods to Baelor as he departs to send a raven to Eagle's Roost. They could lend bannermen, perhaps, depending on their situation. Those talking outside realize something is wrong even before Hevard comes storming out. The bastard nephew of Lord Mikel gives up the good just like that, and it seems likely that's why Ser Jarl should report to Ser Lyonel. In the yard, Ser Lyonel is making an announcement to his knights. Only Ser Hamish is out in the yard currently, of the knights, that is.

It does not take long for Ser Hamish to direct the new recruits toward the south part of the city, moving from the yard, out the northern gate, and marching south. It will take a little while to get the rest of the men mustered, the cavalary, archers, and foot particularly. The scouts are already out in the field, waiting for House Wyl.

[x] [ OOC ]
#97: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Bohemond,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 5:47 pm
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Ser Jarl shocked at the of Lord Eddard Stark's murder, although he refrains from showing it. Given the news, the knight needs to talk with Lord Mikel, although for an entirely different reason. The knight enters the room where the lord is, giving a polite bow before speaking.

"Lord Mikel, I have heard the news and will mobilize the infantry immediately. I am concerned that the Musgoods may try something knowing we will have troops out on patrol. I suggest we leave a reserve at the castle for that reason," he says in a quick but measured tone, ready to leave and act on whatever orders he is given.
#98: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 6:09 pm
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"Good," Lord Mikel says at first, but is in no mood to chat. He had already sent Hevard away. "We have the consolatory and the castle guard," Lord Mikel announces. "That's two-hundred men. The boneway is less than seventy miles to Northmarch. If House Musgood attacks, we'll be able to survive a siege until you return." He looks up at Ser Jarl and nods, seemingly happy someone is actually working for the good of his House and not wanting something from him.
#99: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 6:12 pm
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Freila watches Ser Hevard storm out of the meeting room and make the announcement of the impending war. As the courtyard begins swirling with activity, part of her feels excitement. She knows this part of her is being foolish though, since warfare is unlikely to bring anyone at Northmarch anything but grief. She hurries after Maester Baelor in case he needs her assistance.
#100: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Bohemond,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 6:57 pm
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Ser Jarl bows to Lord Mikel before turning to leave. The knight makes his way to the training yard to find Ser Lyonel.
#101: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Shurijo,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 17, 2014 7:43 pm
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Colin glances over to look at Freila, but he doesn't speak. When Lyonel exits the room and continues on, Colin just nods and departs the area heading towards Northmarch.
#102: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 1:14 am
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He looks stunned at Hevard's proclamation, but had nodded his assent when the man asked for himself. "But... Why? Ser Jamie is a man of the Kingsguard, why would he risk everything to kill the Hand?" His mind went to work in haste - and he certainly wouldn't want to be the King right now, holding the scales of justice with his oldest friend on one side and his Queen's brother in the other.
#103: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 5:40 am
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"It does sound like madness, aye" Ashlee agrees, not knowing anything about the man that could explain it. "I doubt he would be riding here though, so have fun chasing nothing."
#104: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 12:34 pm
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"I care nothing for the Lannisters OR the Baratheons. I war comes to these lands, it is the innocent who will suffer the rapes, pillagings and murders. Just as it was when Musgood attacked, as it was when Tywin Lannister sacked King's Landing...as it will always be."

Hevard looks at Daren again, annoyed that the boy did not seem to heed his call. "I plan to have any man caught raping or killing smallfolk put to the sword. Whether he has a clover, stag, lion or anything else on his banner. Do you disagree little lord?"
#105: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 12:37 pm
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He hurries after Hevard. "I don't disagree at all, my friend. But I'm not the Lord of these lands."

(( Sorry, I had intended that Daren followed after Hevard but didn't make that clear. ))
#106: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 12:44 pm
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July 5th, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

griffalo wrote:
He hurries after Hevard. "I don't disagree at all, my friend. But I'm not the Lord of these lands."

(( Sorry, I had intended that Daren followed after Hevard but didn't make that clear. ))

[x] [ OOC ]

"I am not asking you to run my Justice for me lad...but there are things you can help me with, if you so choose. Right now, as the man who IS lord has no interest in his subjects safety, I hope to insure it nonetheless. A trusted friend of mine named Sandor helps me organize the Justice and I'll go speak with him now, I hope you can join me." As Hevard takes the boy out of the keep and towards the yard where he last saw Sandor, at a brisk pace, he starts looking for Sandor.
#107: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 12:53 pm
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"I owe you a debt, Hevard. I'll happily help wherever I can. What is it you want me to do?" He had to walk at a fast clip just to keep up with the older man's strides, and he kept darting glances towards the man at his side, which gave him the air of an eager puppy.
#108: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 12:57 pm
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"I will let you know soon enough. For now, just come with me as I speak with my men." Hevard continues to search the yard for his friend.
#109: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 1:55 pm
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Lord Mikel spends the next few hours looking over maps and talking to Baelor about what is likely. "I still do not believe we'll encounter anything," he says, "As I said, I think it unlikely the Kingslayer would come this way. I think it likely our troops will greet House Wyl when they come north. What do we tell them when they come? I have no idea what the Dornish involvement in any of this is."

Ovryn has been mostly removed from the commotion. Yesterday, a Septa from the Garden of Virtue, arrived. Ovryn had sent messages to request a potential tutor for his sister, Freila. The lady is old, but very stout. She's taller and wider than Ovryn, who is no small man. The septa has yet to meet Freila due to her duties at the castle. "Why is this girl active in secular activities, septon? She should be reading the Seven Pointed Star until she wakes and sleeps. If she is to be tutored, she must quit her current position. If she must work, then, she should work in the sept, or, failing that, in a position more suitable for a girl her age. She should be making beds or working in the kitchen, such work builds character for women."

Ashlee has plenty to say about the current situation, but less to do about it. She's walking about the castle when she spots Timon and Jenos nearby. "Cousin," Timon calls out to her, attempting to get her attention.

Freila, as usual, assist Maester Baelor. These days, she's seen as an extension of the maester, regularly attending meetings with Baelor and Lord Mikel. Her level of responsibility in the castle has grown over the last few months, handling some of Baelor's less important tasks such as bookkeeping.
#110: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 2:07 pm
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Now, what could he want? Ashlee gives the boy a smile, not entirely certain if he deserves one. "Timon" she greets without betraying much in the way of emotion. "You are not out in the field with the rest?"
#111: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 2:37 pm
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*** Northmarch ***

Lyonel looks for Baelor in his room and solar hoping to spot either Freila or the Maester.

[x] [ OOC ]
#112: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 5:08 pm
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Freila notices Ser Lyonel. Since Baelor is engrossed with his meeting with Lord Mikel, she steps out of the room and says to the heir, "Is there anything I can help you with, My Lord?"
#113: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 6:10 pm
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Lyonel seems extremely glad to see her "Thank the Seven! Freila I need you to do something for me, its very important. " Lyonel looks around ensuring the two of them are alone . He lowers his voice "Colin is missing, do you know where he is?"
#114: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 6:35 pm
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Meanwhile, inside his solar, Maester Baelor composes a message to Eagle's Roost and prepares to send it by raven.
#115: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: StubbsPKS,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2014 9:20 pm
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Jenos can see that something is very wrong in the courtyard, but is too far to hear the news of what is happening. As Lyonel reappears after talking with Lord Mikel, Jenos looks at Timon "If you'll excuse me Timon, I am going to see what the commotion is all about."
Jenos moves toward the large group of people which is steadily growing larger.
After Freila approaches, Jenos leans toward Lyonel and quietly asks "M'Lord, is everything all right?" His hand instinctively moves to his sword.
#116: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 7:38 am
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Lyonel practically kicks himself for not thinking of Jenos earlier. "We are off to guard the pass, the Kingslayer has murdered the Hand. War seems on the horizon. Furthermore I cannot find Colin, I worry he might have done something stupid like run off after Wen. I don't want my father to know though. Do you know where Colin might be?"
#117: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: StubbsPKS,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 7:49 am
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Jenos looks shocked at the news of the betrayal of Jamie Lannister. "Killed the hand of the king? This does not bode well. We must remain vigilant in case the Musgoods take advantage of the chaos that will surely accompany this if it comes to war." Remembering that he has been asked a question, Jenos shakes his head slowly. "Sorry M'Lord, I haven't seen Colin since you two last spoke."
#118: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 8:03 am
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"Keep your ear to the ground and please keep it between us. I don't want Colin to get in trouble for the foolishness of youth. Love will ruin a man every time. Keep my family safe while I am away."
#119: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 10:57 am
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Freila is surprised that Colin has run away, but not shocked. "I'm sorry, My Lord," she says to Ser Lyonel, "but I do not know where Colin is. If there's any way I can help ..." Her voice trails off. She's not really sure there's much she can do to help and, if Colin has run after Wen, she's not sure she wants to stop him, even though she knows that doing so would be extraordinarily foolhardy.
#120: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 11:02 am
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Baelor has penned the letter to Cillyan. He fastens it to the ankle of the only raven he has that is trained to fly to Eagle's Roost. From his small rookery, he lets the raven go into the air. Soon, it fades from view. When he returns, he hears some of the conversation going on in the hallway outside his solar, as Lyonel was originally destined to talk to him, but waylayed by Freila and Jenos.
#121: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 11:05 am
    ----
July 5th, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

"Is there something the matter with Colin?" Baelor asks as he limps out to see some people conversing outside his solar.
#122: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 12:38 pm
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Downstairs, Lady Ashlee regards Timon and asks why he's not out in the field. "The army's left, well, most of it. Over three hundred strong." Timon smiles to his cousin, "I'm not yet a squire, or for that matter a knight. I'm not going out to war. Imagine if something happened to Lyonel."
#123: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 1:09 pm
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"Most boys of your age and station would have squired for several years already" Ashlee says prodingly, testing what sort of response that might provoke. "Besides, it is not like to be more than a chase for grumps and snarkins."
#124: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 1:12 pm
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"Really?" Timon keeps his smile, "I did not know woman had an opinion about military matters?" He takes a step forward, standing within an arm's length of Ashlee. "As for as squiring, well, I have been spending my years learning ways of stewardship and such. Although, I have been training lately with Ser Hamish and Jenos."
#125: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 2:01 pm
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Lyonel sees the master coming out, "Yes lets step into your solar. "Once the group has moved inside he speaks freely with the group. "Colin is missing. It's not like him to shirk his duty so I fear Wen leaving may have forced him into doing something stupid. Love is a mans bane, particularly a young man. I am worried about him but I don't have time to search for him. I don't want my father to know but I think it would be wise to dispatch a couple riders towards Highgarden to find him. What do you think Maester?"
#126: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 2:16 pm
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"Lady Tania would find it quite natural" Ashlee tilts her head to the side with a slightly mischievous smile and takes a tiny step to the side, not shying away or withdrawing, though denying him the chance to close the distance by a single step, long as he does not wish to ruin whatever moment that may arise. "And I found that allying with the maester allowed me to escape the septa's wrath. The Conquest of Dorne certainly is of more interest than the seven pointed star, would you not agree?"
#127: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 5:08 pm
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"You're not Dornish, cousin." Timon does not try to get any closer really. "But, I'm not so against a woman having an opinion, you know. About war, about politics, whatever." He shrugs, "The Seven Pointed Star, well, I have heard enough that drivel, not much of a surprise it came from an apostate." Timon chuckles to himself.
#128: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 5:18 pm
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"Poor you" Ashlee says with feigned sympathy. "So while not in the field, what do you plan on doing for the rest of the day?"
#129: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 5:38 pm
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It is not difficult to see through Ashlee's attitude. Timon was a spoiled child, perhaps, but a complete fool is unlikely. "Worry not for my feelings, my lady, but what about yours? It must be difficult being the daughter of Yoran Musgood. I wouldn't worry, Lyonel will likely have his head before long."
#130: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 5:49 pm
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"Are you certain?" Ashlee looks at him inquiringly. "The maester seems content to wait for the conclave, a group of old ponderous men with no authority over my father. The Ashfords have done nothing... " she allows for a brief pause to make him chew on that, yet not enough to take the iniative from her. "How is Lyonel going to get near him under those circumstances?"
#131: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 6:20 pm
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"This is an exceedingly bad time for Colin to disappear," Maester Baelor replies. "House Cloverwood has been given an order by its liege lord in accordance with a royal decree." He shakes his head. "Absent any orders, he'd only be in defiance of you, his knight. In that case, punishment would be up to you. But now ... now he's potentially in defiance of Lord Mace Tyrell, and even King Robert."

"Here's the best I can do. I can wait until this evening to tell your father. If you can find him by then, we can call this an unfortunate misunderstanding. But any longer than that and I don't see how we can delay informing Lord Mikel. Consider this, if Colin has fled, he's fled into the biggest manhunt that Westeros has seen in a very long time. He knows Cloverwood lands and where Cloverwood troops are. But once he leaves these familiar lands, he's going to be walking into a land filled with troops, all looking for a lone man moving covertly. He's bound to be questioned, and I can't speak for what the results of that questioning will be."
#132: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Thu Jun 19, 2014 7:11 pm
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Freila says nothing, but feels her blood running cold at the thought of what might happen to Colin should he be caught by people who do not know him. She doesn't know the squire well, but she would still hate to see harm come to him. She finds herself very glad she did not have a chance to speak to Colin, for she would have told him Wen was upset at leaving without him, and she might well now be blaming herself for him having fled.
#133: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 7:03 am
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"I don't have time to look for Colin, I need to be on the field with our troops. I will send two riders towards highgarden to find him. That is the best I can do. Would it be a good idea to send a raven to my sister? I leave that to your best interest then Maester. Freila take care of him while we are gone. I must go. " Lyonel turns and shakes his head "Colin you fool." And waits to make sure there are no more questions.
#134: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 8:20 am
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Baelor puts a hand on Lyonel's shoulder. "I'll do what I can for Colin," he says quietly. "If we can find him before his disappearance is discovered, so much the better. But if not, I'll try and temper your father's anger. And I'll see what I can do to mitigate his punishment."
#135: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 8:47 am
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Lyonel asks for Baelor's aid, but knows he has to get back out into the field quickly. The main route to Highgarden passes through Ashford. The only quick way is by taking the Cockleswhent west there, to the Mander, and then to Highgarden by ship. There are various small trails that head west, some from Northmarch, others from Ashford, that would eventually lead to Highgarden.
#136: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 8:48 am
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July 5h, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

"Never can be quite sure about anything, my lady," Timon says, "But if they cross paths again, I think that's what Lyonel will do. He already defeated your brother in the joust, so I believe he has the skill. Charlthan's head on a pike is what he deserves for what he's done to your family."
#137: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Chanur,  PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 9:01 am
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"Thank you Maester. My family owes you a debt it will never be able to repay. " Lyonel gives Freila a smile "Goodbye Freila. " And then heads out to get Honor ready, patting her nose and scratching her ears he puts his saddle on her and gets her ready to ride. He is not as fast as it as he once may have been, with Colin here it has been to long and he is a bit rusty. Still he manages to get it done and rides out into the yard to meet his Calvary.

"Alright Men Of Northmarch! We know what that traitor the Kingslayer has done! Lets ride out and meet our brothers and pray to the Seven he comes our way!"

[x] [ OOC ]
#138: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 9:10 am
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Lyonel goes back to his duty. It does take him a half hour to get his armor on, and to get Honor saddles. Luckily, one of the stableboys helps him. Afterward, he returns to his men, leading the twenty horsemen and the only cavalary in Northmarch south to catch up with the others.

[x] [ OOC ]
#139: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 10:22 am
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"First their heads would have to be within reach of Ser Lyonel's sword" Ashlee crosses her arms beneath her breasts, if it was that easy, it would already have happened. "How do you propose that to happen?"
#140: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 10:25 am
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"We bring our army to Faretown under a sellsword banner, then we find both Charlthan and Yoran and execute them. We leave the same way. They did it to us, why cannot we do the same?" Timon seems very serious about the plan.
#141: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 10:55 am
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After Lyonel leaves the room, Freila turns to Baelor and says sadly, "We're not likely to catch Colin in time, are we, Maester Baelor? He must know that it wouldn't take long to discover he was missing and that men would be sent after him. He'll probably be trying to hide from pursuers as rides for Highgarden."
#142: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 10:57 am
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"And give Lord Ashford every reason to replace your father with one of his own sons?" Ashlee shakes her head. "No, we shall need a more clever plan than so."
#143: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 11:24 am
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Baelor takes a deep breath and then nods slowly. "No, we're not," he replies. "Colin knows the local lands and the local smallfolk, we can't afford to send many people out to look for him, he has a significant lead, and he has a substantial amount of money. All of those things will aid him in evading us."

"He picked an excellent time for making his escape, whether he intended it or not - I suspect not, as the news about Ser Jaime just arrived. But he picked an exceedingly bad time to do so. His duty is to stay with Ser Lyonel; he violated that duty. And in doing so, he took the risk that he would be called to arms and not be there when it happened. I wish I had better news. But I fear for Colin when he's eventually found."

"I just hope he didn't take one of the horses from the stable when he left. He doesn't need to be a horse thief as well as a deserter."
#144: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 12:03 pm
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Freila thinks for a moment, then says slowly, "Well, it sounds like the best thing we can do for Colin might be to send ravens to the other groups searching for Ser Jaime Lannister--at least that makes it less likely that Colin will become a victim of mistaken identity and slain." She thinks she should suggest sending a raven to Highgarden as well, but she can't hope Colin will somehow make it there safely to be with Wen.
#145: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 12:10 pm
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"I'm afraid we have to save ravens for very important messages," Baelor replies. "Every raven we send has to be returned here by hand. And we don't have that many ravens. For example, we only had the one raven for Eagle's Roost, and I just sent a copy of the king's decree with it. We can't send any messages to Eagle's Roost until we get a raven in return. And some of the smaller holdings don't have that many ravens."

"We're fortunate with respect to Highgarden. I had Lady Wen's escorts bring some ravens back with them. But even then, we have to be careful how we use them. But it does seem likely that we'll be sending a raven to Highgarden in the next day or two, all the more so once Lord Mikel learns of Colin's disappearance. And any message we send will certainly mention Colin."
#146: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 12:16 pm
    ----
*** Ashlee ***

"Well, I think it would work, we'd just have to be careful, that's all." Timon doesn't seem so smug suddenly.

*** Baelor and Freila ***

The maester and his assistant discuss what to do about Colin, but need to decide how to try to find him, if they decide to actually try at all.
#147: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 12:27 pm
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Freila thinks for a moment and says, "Well, we can't send any soldiers after Colin. Can we send people who know the area well but aren't soldiers ...?" Her voice trails off, then she shakes her head. "No, that wouldn't be fair--we'd just be sending untrained people into a war zone."
#148: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TrueStag,  PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 2:27 pm
    ----
TetNak wrote:

Ovryn has been mostly removed from the commotion. Yesterday, a Septa from the Garden of Virtue, arrived. Ovryn had sent messages to request a potential tutor for his sister, Freila. The lady is old, but very stout. She's taller and wider than Ovryn, who is no small man. The septa has yet to meet Freila due to her duties at the castle. "Why is this girl active in secular activities, septon? She should be reading the Seven Pointed Star until she wakes and sleeps. If she is to be tutored, she must quit her current position. If she must work, then, she should work in the sept, or, failing that, in a position more suitable for a girl her age. She should be making beds or working in the kitchen, such work builds character for women."

"Thank you for coming, mother Wylla." Ovryn greets her.

"Freila's character clearly leans towards the Crone, and she has travelled with me on the road when I was a wandering septon to build character. You may be suprised by her fortitude. And she has did much work with me in the sept already. I don't think that some understanding for the great wonders of the world the Smith has made for us will harm her."

He continues.

"In regards to matters of faith I think that she's grasping it good enough," but Ovryn probably does think that Freila could've spent more time with the Seven-pointed Star. "But I was hoping that some tutorship could've been arranged with her also being involved with the maester's work? Its a golden oppertunity for the Faith to gain a septa with an exceptional range of learning."

[x] [ OOC ]
#149: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 4:41 pm
    ----
"There is one person we can consult," Baelor suggests to Freila. "And he's someone who deserves to know what's happened. Please go find Colin's father and tell him I need to see him immediately in my solar. He's probably down in the stables preparing horses for the departing troops. Tell him that I said his assistant grooms can handle matters for a quarter of an hour. It's just possible that he may have a clue where Colin might have gone."
#150: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2014 5:28 pm
    ----
Freila nods and says, "Yes, right away." As quickly as she can, she heads down to the stables, looking for Colin's father.
#151: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Sat Jun 21, 2014 6:48 am
    ----
July 5h, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

"I would not risk it if I sat on my uncles seat" Ashlee declares truthfully enough. "Besides, if the approaching army was spotted, they could barricade themselves inside their keep, and Lord Buckler cannot suffer a siege against one of his banners without loosing his honor as their liege lord."

"No, direct measures would have to rely on stealth, the men involved must be able to carry out their objective before they are detected, and they must also need to have a good chance of escaping or you won't find anyone willing to do it. Further, they cannot be men from Northmarch or known to serve your father, so that House Cloverwood cannot be implicated should one of them be captured."

Last edited by Zorbeltuss on Sat Jun 21, 2014 2:39 pm; edited 2 times in total
#152: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Sat Jun 21, 2014 9:17 am
    ----
*** Ashlee ***

"Keep?" Timon laughs, "Faretown has no defenses, you know that. They have a simple longhall, hardly enough to cause a siege, even I know that." The youth rolls his eyes, likely thinking Ashlee knows nothing of military strategy. "If you're talking about assassinations, well, Jenos could do it." He ignores everything she says about not being able to trace it back to House Northmarch apparently.

*** Baelor and Freila ***

Freila rushes out to the kennels to find Brit, Colin's father. Brit is a tall, red headed man, his hair is even brighter than Freilas. He smiles as he sees her, "Freila girl," he starts, the dogs barking from their pens as she comes into the kennel. "How are you?" he raises his voice over the racket.

*** Ovryn ***

[x] [ OOC ]

Mother Wylla is likely double Ovryn's age, but still seems virile. She even made the trip to Northmarch with only one companion, and that was a young boy of ten years. She is not easily swayed, as she is usually the one doing the swaying.

[x] [ Intrigue ]
#153: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Sat Jun 21, 2014 12:57 pm
    ----
*** Baelor and Freila ***

Quote:
Freila rushes out to the kennels to find Brit, Colin's father. Brit is a tall, red headed man, his hair is even brighter than Freilas. He smiles as he sees her, "Freila girl," he starts, the dogs barking from their pens as she comes into the kennel. "How are you?" he raises his voice over the racket.

Freila doesn't respond directly to Brit's question, but the look on her face indicates all is not well. "Maester Baelor would like to see you straight away," she says. "Any responsibilities you have right now, you should hand over to one of your men." Freila would whisper to him that it was about Colin, but she knows he'll not hear her in this racket--and he may well be able to guess what this is about in any case.
#154: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Sat Jun 21, 2014 4:00 pm
    ----
"Well, nothing like this one" Ashlee makes a gesture towards the Castle behind them. "But there's a moat and there's a wall, and a tower to withdraw to on the motte. Should be plenty capable of holding off this army of yours until Lord Ralph marches down with a bigger one."

"As for Jenos, maybe, but would he do it? A certain type of man is required to murder another. Perhaps it is for the best that most men are not."
#155: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Sat Jun 21, 2014 4:56 pm
    ----
*** Baelor and Freila ***

"Ok," Brit says, sitting down a bucket of water and nodding to a young man working for him. Freila doesn't know the boy. He gives her a shy smile. Brit walks out the door with the girl. "Well, lead the way." Freila and Brit John head back into the keep. Brit says something about wishing he had time to make himself ready. He wasn't a stranger to the keep, but he had the smell of dog and sweat on him from a long day's work.

[x] [ OOC ]

Freila delivers Brit John, Colin's father, to his solar. "Maester?" he asks, "You wanted to see me?"

*** Ashlee ***

"Reckon he'd do just about anything to keep Lyonel and I safe. He's a good man, that Braavosi." He smiles, "And I hope I can be a good man too, no, a great man. I think you'll see." Did a Faceless Man take over the guise of Timon while no one was looking?
#156: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Sat Jun 21, 2014 5:07 pm
    ----
"A great man?" Ashlee raises an eyebrow. "And how would you become that?"
#157: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Sat Jun 21, 2014 5:11 pm
    ----
*** Ashlee ***

Timon's smile changes. It was once a mixture of good natured and jovial, but now, it is sly and suspect. "By becoming Lord of Faretown, and treating my subjects fairly." There were only limited ways could keep that promise. "House Cloverwood of Faretown has a particularly nice ring to it, I think."
#158: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Sat Jun 21, 2014 5:38 pm
    ----
"And you will achieve that, how?" Ashlee does not like the idea, but she keeps that feeling buried behind an intrigued face, hoping to encourage the boy to think loudly.
#159: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Sat Jun 21, 2014 5:43 pm
    ----
"You'll see, cousin, you'll see."

Timon doesn't appear as foolish as Ashlee might have expected. He turns and begins walking toward the grand hall and eventually the gates into Northmarch.
#160: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Sat Jun 21, 2014 6:08 pm
    ----
Well, if he want to play it like that...Ashlee can do without a rogue element like Timon muddling the water. Well, Lord Mikel should have sent him away to be page and squire a long time ago, not too late for the latter. Perhaps Baelor would be the one to consult? Though something was clearly requiring his attention. However, the brief discussion with Timon had brought ideas forth into her own head, Hevard's story had been an interesting one, and now, something in it had caught her mind's attention. Now, then, where might Margo be found?
#161: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Sun Jun 22, 2014 9:14 am
    ----
*** Ashlee ***

Ashlee hasn't seen much of Margo. She's stayed away from the keep mostly, except when she first arrived with Hevard. She's been living in a small home in Northmarch with Hevard and her two children.
#162: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Sun Jun 22, 2014 9:47 am
    ----
"There will be a lot of walking today" Ashlee declares cheerily to her silent shadow as she heads in that direction, asking her way if need to be.
#163: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Sun Jun 22, 2014 1:20 pm
    ----
*** Baelor and Freila ***

Freila assures Brit, "Maester Baelor is more concerned with the matter at hand than your appearance." When they enter a section of the castle where she can whisper to Brit, she pauses, tugs at his arm, then whispers in her ear, "This is quite serious--Colin has run off. Don't say anything yet--few people know and we're trying to keep rumors that would hurt him from spreading." She doesn't want the matter to be a complete shock to him when he walks into the maester's quarters.
#164: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TrueStag,  PostPosted: Sun Jun 22, 2014 1:52 pm
    ----
TetNak wrote:
.
*** Ovryn ***

[x] [ OOC ]

Mother Wylla is likely double Ovryn's age, but still seems virile. She even made the trip to Northmarch with only one companion, and that was a young boy of ten years. She is not easily swayed, as she is usually the one doing the swaying.

Ovryn sees that the septa before him is not a sort to be easily swayed, but Ovryn isn't a septon who is easily swayed either and prefers to do the swaying. And he is firmly convinced that he has the right of it, no way he'll let some square-minded septa prevent Freila from developing her full potential.

[x] [ OOC ]
#165: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Mon Jun 23, 2014 11:48 am
    ----
*** Baelor and Freila ***

"Yes, Master John," Baelor replies. "I'm afraid I have some difficult news to tell you, and I was hoping you might be able to help me with it." He takes a breath and pushes right into the news. There was no use bandying about.

"Your son has disappeared from the castle. We fear that he may be heading to Highgarden to try and see Lady Wen. I'm assuming you've noticed that in the past months she and your son have developed feelings for each other. And Colin has been quite despondent since he learned of Lady Wen's departure."

"Normally this would be a minor problem, since typically Colin's duties are only to Ser Lyonel, who has sympathy for what your son is going through. But as you'll understand, the current situation puts things in a totally different light. For although he fled before news of the king's decree arrived, Colin is nevertheless not here when his liege lord has called him out to the field. And so you see, it's of vital importance that we find your son as soon as possible. Any delay in his return could cause him a great deal of trouble."

"Now you know your son, and you're probably the one who took him riding around the Cloverwood lands when he was a lad. If anyone knows where he might have gone, or what route he might be taking, it's you. That's why I'm asking you to help us find Colin. If there are horses left after the armies depart, I can authorize you to use one - though we must leave at least one ready at the castle in case a message needs to be run. And you can take whatever men can be spared from the stables. I assume that with the cavalry gone, that may amount to a few. But you must catch him before he leaves Cloverwood land, or it's too late. I can't authorize you to leave this territory, nor would I, given the troops that will be abroad looking for Ser Jaimie Lannister."

"So," he concludes. "Are you willing to help? Do you have any thoughts as to where Colin might have gone?"
#166: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Tue Jun 24, 2014 10:22 am
    ----
July 5th, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

*** Baelor and Freila ***

The older John rubs his red beard, his face looking fearful, sad, and angry all at once. "That fool. I warned him." He looks over to Baelor, "Of course I'm willing to help, but I have no clue where he would have gone. I do not know the way to Highgarden save by going west. I know the Cloverwood lands, but I do not know much else, maester. Most of our dogs are out in the field with Ser Lyonel, so I do not know if I'd be able to track him properly, plus, with all the traffic of men coming and going .." Brit shakes his head, "Which way should I go?" Brit does not appear to have any greater chance to find Colin than anyone else.

[x] [ OOC ]
#167: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TrueStag,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 24, 2014 1:12 pm
    ----
[x] [ OOC ]
#168: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: StubbsPKS,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 24, 2014 11:23 pm
    ----
Jenos comes upon Timon and Ashlee talking. Normally he wouldn't want to interrupt a conversation, but with everything going on, this was not the time for niceties. "Timon, are you heading out with the other men or remaining here?"

Jenos nods to Ashlee in greeting.

[x] [ OOC ]
#169: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Wed Jun 25, 2014 9:12 am
    ----
*** Jenos ***

[x] [ OOC ]

Timon looks over at Jenos, "I will be staying here, I think. I'm not officially a squire yet." He frowns, "I am hoping Ser Jarl or Ser Hamish will take me on. I would squire for my brother, but Colin John already fills that position."
#170: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: StubbsPKS,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 25, 2014 10:32 am
    ----
Unsure of how much Timon knows of the current situation, Jenos decides not to mention Colin's disappearance.

"After this is all over, I'm sure we will be able to find you a knight suitable for your to squire for." He leaves out the fact that there is likely to be a number of knights in need of new squires when this was all over.

Jenos looks around to see who is left in the main hall before turning back to Timon. "I am staying here as well, come and we will see if there is anything we can do to make ourselves useful."

Without waiting for a response, Jenos heads off toward the yard where he last saw the men gathering. Hopefully, they will come across whoever is staying behind to command the remaining guard.

[x] [ OOC ]
#171: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Wed Jun 25, 2014 10:42 am
    ----
*** Jenos ***

[x] [ OOC ]

Timon nods, "Okay," he says to Jenos, "Maybe we should take some time to relax, I haven't been to Zeb's in a week." Zeb's is the local brothel.
#172: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Wed Jun 25, 2014 11:04 am
    ----
*** Baelor and Freila ***

Freila sits and listens as Brit and Baelor speak. There seems to be very little that they can do to help Colin. She finds herself wishing the squire gets clean away and wonders if he found Wen, if she would run away with him.
#173: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: StubbsPKS,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 26, 2014 6:16 am
    ----
Jenos stops and looks back at Timon. "This is no time for relaxation and whores." He pauses when he realizes that he has not been to see Zeb for a chat for quite some time either.

"When all this is done, before we find you a knight to squire for that will be the time for celebration and relaxation."

Jenos nods and continues on his way into the yard.
#174: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Thu Jun 26, 2014 11:36 am
    ----
*** Jenos ***

"So what are we supposed to do?" Timon frowns, "The army is leagues away by now. Ser Jamie is not coming to Northmarch, I assure you." The youngest Cloverwood shrugs as he follows Jenos to the yard. The yard, however, is now empty. The armies of Northmarch have already made their way south.
#175: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Fri Jun 27, 2014 12:40 pm
    ----
*** Baelor and Freila ***

Baelor nods at Brit's comments. "Well, find the best men that you can who are left after the troops leave. There should be some hunters, trappers, or the like who will know the lands. Find the best candidates that you can and we'll send them out. Tell me what you need and who's going, and I'll do what I can to facilitate the search. Beyond that we can only pray to the Seven that we'll find Colin before he leaves Cloverwood lands."
#176: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Fri Jun 27, 2014 12:47 pm
    ----
*** Baelor and Freila ***

Brit nods, "I will get something together." Brit turns ands hustle out of the room to hopefully find his son. Finally, Baelor and Freila are left alone to ponder today's happenings.
#177: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Fri Jun 27, 2014 1:58 pm
    ----
*** Baelor and Freila ***

Freila watches Brit leave, then turns to Baelor and says quietly, "Even if they find Colin, he's going to be in a great deal of trouble, isn't he? What do you think Lord Mikel will do? He's likely to be ... upset--and distracted, seeing how he has a military operation to deal with. He may judge Colin more harshly than he might in other circumstances, not just because of Colin's ill-timing, but because of the stress of the fighting."
#178: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Fri Jun 27, 2014 2:16 pm
    ----
*** Baelor and Freila ***

"It depends when he's found," Baelor replies. "If they can find him before tonight, then it may pass without much fuss." The maester shakes his head. "But if he's still gone by moonrise tonight then I fear it will go very poorly for him when he is found."

"Damn Colin for such a foolhardy ploy." He bangs his hand onto the table. "Is this what love drives a man to? If so, then we're wise to pursue lives where love won't drive us to such madness. There may be some loneliness in the life of a maester or a septa. But there's none of this tomfoolery either."
#179: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Fri Jun 27, 2014 2:50 pm
    ----
*** Baelor and Freila ***

Freila is silent for a moment, not being sure what to say. "Well, then, I hope Colin is found sooner rather than later." Or that he gets clean away without getting himself killed in the upcoming search for Jamie Lannister, she thinks to herself.

She pauses again and says, "People often tell me that when I get older, I'll be interested in boys and want to give up a septa's life. I'm quite sure I'll never want to do that. You're right, Maester Baelor, that it does seem to make people fools. Another reason not to chase after boys."
#180: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Sat Jul 05, 2014 11:21 am
    ----
*** Freila ***

Freila finds herself free of duty for a time that day, and walking through the hall passes Timon Cloverwood who calls out to her. She cannot remember a time with the youngest Cloverwood had even spoken to her. "You there, girl," he says.
#181: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Tue Jul 08, 2014 3:19 pm
    ----
July 5th, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

*** Freila ***

Freila pauses, not approaching any closer to Timon, knowing his unsavory reputation. Still, she can't be rude to someone in his position. "Yes, My Lord?" she asks.
#182: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Wed Jul 09, 2014 12:06 pm
    ----
*** Freila ***

Timon gives the girl a pleasant smile, he is an attractive young man, there's no doubt about that. "Hello Freila," he says in greeting, "I just thought I should get to know you, particularly since you're so close to the maester, and the maester is an important retainer of my father." His smile slowly fades, but he seems in a jovial mood. "How do you fare today?"
#183: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Wed Jul 09, 2014 3:04 pm
    ----
*** Freila ***

Freila continues to keep her distance. Her voice is properly respectful, but other than that very neutral and distant. "I am doing very well, thank you, My Lord. My studies with Maester Baelor and my brother are going very well. And, with Measter Baelor busy with so many things, he has let me take on some of his more routine responsibilities, such as some of the accounting. It feels good to be contributing so much to the well-being of Your Lord Father's estates." She hopes that this mention of her important responsibilities will make Timon refrain from messing with her for fear of disrupting the estate's operations and angering his father.
#184: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Thu Jul 10, 2014 10:48 am
    ----
*** Freila ***

"Great," Timon says, though that seems a rather quick and forced response. "I wonder if you could perhaps ask the maester if he would see me, sometime in the next few days would be fine."
#185: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Thu Jul 10, 2014 3:49 pm
    ----
*** Freila ***

"Certainly, My Lord," says Freila. "I am sure he would be happy to meet with you, though he may be preoccupied with advising Your Lord Father about the on-going military campaign." Freila decides to assume that this constitutes a dismissal and continues on her way--away from Timon. She makes a mental note to tell Baelor of Timon's request when she has a chance. She finds herself earnestly wishing that nothing happens to Lyonel--it would be quite horrid if Timon were to become Northmarch's heir.
#186: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Fri Jul 11, 2014 8:50 pm
    ----
As Hevard threads through the yard, contemplating his words before the lord, he almost absent-mindedly bumps into the young septon's sister. He stops and smiles to the girl. "How are you, Freila?"

A part from the fact that she is septon Orwyn's sister, Hevard knows little about the girl. He does remember Sandor telling her she is helping Baelor with house affairs, topics which had little interest and even less knowledge about.
#187: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Sun Jul 13, 2014 8:44 am
    ----
*** Freila and Hevard ***

"I am fine, ser, thank your for asking," she says, though she casts a backward glance as if to check if someone was following her. "And how are you settling into Northmarch?" Although her voice is perfectly polite and respectful, she does seem to be keeping her distance as much as she can. Freila does not know this new knight and has no idea if he is trustworthy like Lyonel or a piece of scum born to power like Timon.
#188: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Sun Jul 13, 2014 9:42 am
    ----
"It's a change, child, that is for sure. Right now there are many things happening in Northmarch and it's left to a few to make sure the common people of this town and Firemarch stay safe and secure."

The young girl probably knows him as little as he knows here, so he keeps his distance to make sure she feels comfortable.

"Don't be afraid to come to me or my men if you need help, no matter what it is. I owe your brother my life...among others."
#189: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: StubbsPKS,  PostPosted: Sun Jul 13, 2014 9:27 pm
    ----
Jenos looks around the yard and realizes that there isn't much to be done here now that everyone has finished their preparations and left. Looking around the yard, he spots Timon and heads over to speak with him some more.

As he walks up, Jenos doesn't wait for Timon to acknowledge him before talking, "Timon, where are you off to?"
#190: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Mon Jul 14, 2014 2:45 pm
    ----
Jenos cannot find Timon, who left him some time ago. Instead, the Braavosi runs into Hevard and Freila in the main hall. The Braavosi probably relishes a bit of time away from Timon Cloverwood, who he has been teach the art of Water Dancing for the last few months.

Meanwhile, Daren descends the stairs into the area as well.

[x] [ OOC ]
#191: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Mon Jul 14, 2014 3:19 pm
    ----
Daren stands a discreet distance from Hevard, hoping to catch his eye without interrupting any conversation he might be engaged in.
#192: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Wed Jul 16, 2014 10:40 am
    ----
"Ovryn saved your life?" say Freila. "I am glad to hear that." Especially given the number of times he's screwed up lately, she thinks to herself, remembering his attack on the Musgood's maester and the lynch mob he unintentionally incited. Freila looks considerably more at ease, now that Hevard has shared his thoughts about her brother and protecting the common people. She wonders if she should say anything about Timon's possible interest in her, but she has no hard evidence, he is Lord Mikel's son, and she may have nipped the problem in the bud herself, by reminding him how invaluable she was. "If I ever need any aid, I will be sure to call on you." She pauses, then asks, "May I ask where you were before you came to Northmarch? And what trouble it was that my brother managed to save you from?"
#193: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: StubbsPKS,  PostPosted: Wed Jul 16, 2014 10:45 am
    ----
[x] [ OOC ]

Jenos scans the courtyard in search of Timon, but is seems he has wandered off. Just as well Jenos thought to himself. He had been spending a lot of time with the boy recently and although he seems to have been maturing as of late, he could still be tiring to be around.

Spotting Hevard and Freila, Jenos starts walking toward them at a slow pace so as not to interrupt their conversation. On his way over, Jenos notices that Daren is doing the same.
#194: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Thu Jul 17, 2014 3:51 pm
    ----
Hevard pauses for a moment, considering how much it is appropriate to tell the child. Much of it is surely common knowledge by now, with both the mopey septon, the priestess, Daren, Margo and Daniel knowing much of it.

"Regarding ending up here, that is a long story which I will gladly share with you under more relaxing circumstances. As for my rescue, I was accused of killing a knight and given a mock trial. My accusers were vial men who disregarded their lords wishes and when he found out what was happening he sent your brother and the red priestess my way. Their intervention gave me a trial by combat instead of a noose." Hevard pauses and smiles to the girl. "And I'm a fairly decent combatant." His captivity and some of the gorier details, he decides to leave out.

"What of you, Freila? I hear you are doing great work alongside the measter? That is impressive for a girl your age." Hevard keeps his tone serious to avoid sounding overbearing.

[x] [ OOC ]
#195: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Thu Jul 17, 2014 5:36 pm
    ----
Freila notes others waiting to speak to Hevard. She answers him briefly, "I am pleased to be able to help the maester--it is a good education for me, since I wish to follow in my brother's footsteps and became a septa and educate young nobles. The more I know of running a lord's domain as well as the words of the Seven, the better I can teach them." She then adds, "But it looks like others are waiting to speak to you." She gestures towards them, well aware that what they have to say may be of more immediate importance than her own ambitions.
#196: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Thu Jul 17, 2014 5:43 pm
    ----
July 5th, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

Hevard nods. Both Daren and Jenos were approaching the odd couple in the yard...although Hevard suspected Jenos was not here to see him. "Very well. Come to me again if you want to talk further. And keep up your good work, I'm sure my uncle is quite grateful." Although Hevard had little to no love towards the Faith, he could not get himself to bring the girl down by saying it. Her enthusiasm would do her much good, hopefully towards the learned crafts and not the silly seven-sided idols. His wife and daughter knew how much use their prayers were.

As the girl points out, both Jenos and Daren are slowly moving towards them. Hevard raises an eyebrow. "And what are you two fine young lordlings skulking about for?"
#197: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Thu Jul 17, 2014 5:54 pm
    ----
He smiled at Hevard. "I'd hardly call it skulking. Lord Mikel wants to see you."
#198: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Thu Jul 17, 2014 5:57 pm
    ----
"Very well. I was on my way to see him when this sweet young lady rudely interrupted me." Hevard smiles to indicate he is joking. "So long Freila, Daren." Daren heads towards the castle entrance to meet with Lord Mikel once again.
#199: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Thu Jul 17, 2014 11:07 pm
    ----
[x] [ OOC ]

Hevard grumps off toward the stairs, ascending them to meet with his uncle.
#200: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Fri Jul 18, 2014 3:11 am
    ----
"Good day Freila" Ashlee nods to the others, having already met them earlier in the day.
#201: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Fri Jul 18, 2014 6:11 pm
    ----
"Good day, My Lady," says Freila, making a courtsey. Freila maintains the same properly respectful tone as she had with the others, but she is a bit more at ease around the lady, not having any reason to think she might have unpleasant sexual designs on Freila.
#202: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Sat Jul 19, 2014 12:51 am
    ----
"I was hoping to speak with the good maester." Ashlee says "I believe you would know better than anyone where he might be and if he can spare a moment?"

After receiving an answer, she turns to Daren. "So, did Hevard find something for you yet?"


[x] [ OOC ]
#203: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Sat Jul 19, 2014 5:01 am
    ----
He nods. "Lord Mikel wishes me to work closely with the Maester, to assist managing the household finances during the conflict."
#204: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Sat Jul 19, 2014 5:55 am
    ----
"It may perhaps not be my place to say, but I must wonder how that brings you closer to your objective." Ashlee prods, maybe he would talk about it, maybe he would not. Though a lord's heir being the assistant of another's maester? That sounded quite weird. He'd be better off taking Jarl's offer of being his squire, and even that would hardly be prestigious for anyone but the Valemen.
#205: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Sat Jul 19, 2014 6:17 am
    ----
He smiled politely, but it was an expression that spoke of patience wearing thin. "I expect it does cause you to wonder. After all, you know nothing about me. Good day." He gave her a nod, beginning to walk away from her.
#206: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Sat Jul 19, 2014 6:36 am
    ----
"If you say so" Ashlee gives him an appraising look .Most curious, she thinks to herself, some nerve must have been hit, but hard to say which one, and by whom. Was this one worth figuring out?
#207: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Sat Jul 19, 2014 10:56 am
    ----
Freila carefully conceals a look of annoyance at the news that Dren is to work with Baelor. That is her job! On the other hand, she is in no position to object to a directive of Lord Mikel. She can only hope she has made herself so invaluable that Baelor will continue to keep her on even as he trains Dren--and she reassures herself that Baelor is fond of her and will doubtless continue training her, unless Lord Mikel orders him otherwise.

Speaking to Lady Ashlee as if Dren's words were of no concern to her, "I'm afraid Maester Baelor's time is consumed right now with the on-going manhunt, My Lady. I'll let him know that you wish to speak to him--when things are a little more under control, I am sure he would be happy to do so. In the mean time, if there's something I can assist you with, I would be happy to. I am certainly no maester, but Maester Baelor has entrusted me with some of his more routine tasks." It can't hurt to seek out an additional patron in addition to Baelor and Ovryn among the castle's powerful--especially if there is a possibility of Dren displacing her.
#208: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Sat Jul 19, 2014 11:17 am
    ----
"Only the maester will do this time I fear." Ashlee says in an apologetic manner, as if seeing though Freila, or maybe just sensing what tone to use. "But should your duties permit, would you care for a raid on the kitchen? They do have the habit of having a small amount of cake somewhere, just in case his lordship requires it."
#209: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Sun Jul 20, 2014 1:40 pm
    ----
Freila's face brightens up, genuinely pleased to be asked to be included in such an escapade by one of the high-born. She may be precocious, but she is still a twelve year-old girl. "Yes, My Lady, I'd be delighted to. I actually have less to do than usual, given that the maester is so involved in planning the manhunt."
#210: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Sun Jul 20, 2014 2:31 pm
    ----
"Then let us go find us some red-cheeked kitchen boy to recruit" Ashlee grins mischievously. "It's important to have fun and games every once in a while, you manage to make time for any of that?"

[x] [ OOC ]
#211: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Mon Jul 21, 2014 11:03 am
    ----
July 5th, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

Freila thinks seriously about Ashlee's question--perhaps not the spirit it was asked in--then says, "You know, My Lady, it has been a while since I've done anything simply for fun. I've been so busy ..." She trails off and shrugs, not completing the thought. She then adds, with more humor, "But I will gladly accompany you on your quest to the kitchen for cake!"
#212: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Mon Jul 21, 2014 5:34 pm
    ----
"Though you do seem to find your work for the good maester to be quite rewarding?" Ashlee suspects as much, having worked closely with Baelor going over what she had memorized of the Musgood ledger, she did not fail to notice the assistant. "The best sort of fun is that which others will thank you for having."
#213: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Tue Jul 22, 2014 1:09 pm
    ----
"Oh, yes, My Lady," says Freila enthusiastically, as they wend their way to the kitchen. "I have learned a great deal from Maester Baelor." She begins chattering about some of the things she has learned, ranging from dealing with the injured and managing ravens to Westeros' ancient history. She even seems to find some aspects of accounting interesting.
#214: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Tue Jul 22, 2014 3:59 pm
    ----
"Well, I suppose someone has to like accounting" Ashlee's face suggests that she is not among them. Why Freila still seemed intent on becoming a septa eluded her, though she did not wish to ruin the moment, encouraging the younger girl to talk by asking questions to what she heard, and most of all to show that she did indeed pay attention to all of it, "Pity that the old man's club at the citadel does not suffer girls to study to become a maester."
#215: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Tue Jul 22, 2014 5:21 pm
    ----
Freila looks sharply at Ashlee, wondering if she was that transparent. She says, "Yes, My Lady, it surely is a pity. But I am grateful for the training Maester Baelor has given me and the chance to be a septa. My hope is to serve as a tutor to a lord's children. Who knows? Perhaps even Ser Lyonel's? Then my knowledge of not only the Seven Pointed Star but all the worldly matters Maester Baelor has taught would be most valuable, allowing me to better serve both my lord and the Seven." If Ashlee was the first to really grasp Freila's motivations for her studies and becoming a septa, well, Freila supposed she was far more clever than the others she had met and Freila respected such insight. She just hoped that the Lady Ashlee would prove an ally.
#216: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Tue Jul 22, 2014 6:03 pm
    ----
"I suppose you could pose as a boy and sneak inside." Ashlee suggests with a mischievous smile, she appears serious enough that she might mean every word, but it is probably a joke.
#217: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TrueStag,  PostPosted: Tue Jul 22, 2014 11:36 pm
    ----
Ovryn and Wylla comes walking down the two girls as they are conversing.

"Ah, my sweet sister." Ovryn says. "She's the red-headed girl." and as they reach Ashlee and Freila. "Lady Ashlee." with a curt nod.
#218: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Wed Jul 23, 2014 3:40 am
    ----
"You followed me?" Ashlee says in an obviously feigned accusatory manner, accompanied with a fitting smile "hardly conduct fit for a septon."
#219: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Wed Jul 23, 2014 10:31 am
    ----
"Hell, Ovryn," says Freila. She is a little disappointed the be interrupted in her imminent adventure with Ashlee, but carefully keeps any such feeling from her features. She sees the new septa standing next to him and, remembering what he said about finding someone to better train her, she curtseys to the woman and says, "I am Freila, Ovryn's younger sister."
#220: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Wed Jul 23, 2014 6:30 pm
    ----
Ashlee and Freila were close to making their escape, but, Ovryn's appearance has changed their immediate chance to go after some sweet cakes. The old lady smile and looks down at the girl, "Hello child, I am Sister Wylla, and your brother wished that I help give you instruction in regards to the Seven, would you like that?" She bends over slightly to get closer to the Maester's helper. Daren, on the other side of the room, tries to slip away, but as he does he spots Hevard coming back down the steps where he had just arrived. His meeting with Lord Mikel was apparently brief.
#221: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: griffalo,  PostPosted: Wed Jul 23, 2014 6:32 pm
    ----
He'd just stopped short of grinding his teeth when he saw Hevard coming back.

"That was quick. It seems lie he was more to the point with you than he was with me."
#222: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Tarciryan, Location: Trondheim, Norway PostPosted: Wed Jul 23, 2014 9:25 pm
    ----
"That man is nothing if not pragmatic. It might be one of his better qualities. It is also what makes him as boring as watching a septa take a nap." Hevard notices the rest of the gather, not the least of which is the septon and the sister. His recent choice of words might have proved slightly out of place...

"Septon Orwyn, I'm pleased to see you again." He nods to Ashlee and Freila as well. "So...I assume you are all here plotting to usurp Lord Mikel?" Hevard is actually curious as to why these people are all here.
#223: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TrueStag,  PostPosted: Thu Jul 24, 2014 12:00 am
    ----
"Not at all." Ovryn directs himself first to the lady in the company. "I merely searched for something which you had already found."

"Hello, sweet sister." Ovryn smiles. "On my insistance septa Wylla is here to help with your studies regarding the doctrines of the Seven, which I feel has been neglected due to my other duties. You work with the maester will naturally continue more or less as before."

"Constable Hevard, I am happy to see you as well."
#224: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Thu Jul 24, 2014 11:10 am
    ----
Freila puts on a glowing smile and says to septa Wylla, "Oh, yes, I would be very happy to have someone guide me through my studies of the Seven." In truth, she is happy, for she knows she needs to know more on this to make a proper septa. She just wishes Ovryn and Wylla had found her after her adventure with Lady Ashlee was complete. She turns to Ovryn and says, "Thank you for going to the trouble to get me someone to help guide me in this area." She turns back to Wylla and says, "I seem to have a bit of free time on my hands right now. Maester Baelor is very wrapped up in the on-going manhunt and I've completed my routine duties to help him. Lady Ashlee had asked me to accompany her on something, but ..." She turns and looks at Ashlee as if asking for permission.
#225: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Thu Jul 24, 2014 1:47 pm
    ----
"Well, nothing that cannot be done some other day" Ashlee's disappointment is mostly the kind that always comes if one is the second choice, but she does not let it show. There would always be someone that could be tempted with cake, and being generous now would serve to make Freila grateful and most likely make for even more pleasant conversation once they could steal away from boring septas
#226: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Sun Jul 27, 2014 7:39 pm
    ----
July 5th, 298 A.L.
Northmarch

The rest of the day is spent doing various chores and duties. Maester Baelor is still preoccupied and even Freila does not see much of him. Instead, she speaks of more theological interests with Mother Wylla who has decided to stay a few days with Freila before returning to her Motherhouse.

July 6th, 298 A.L
Northmarch

The new day dawns ..

[x] [ OOC ]
#227: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Tue Jul 29, 2014 3:40 pm
    ----
That the maester was quite busy the day before did not mean Ashlee was going to give up. After breaking her fast on what likely would cause her mother yet another worry and make the cook wonder if he should feel insulted or not, she makes her way to find Baelor, the matter in need of discussion must after all take on the appearance of having a small sense of urgency to it.
#228: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Fri Aug 01, 2014 10:16 am
    ----
Again, Ashlee is turned away. Why, it is unclear, but the response is that Baelor is too busy. Instead, Ashlee spots Lady Gwyn who smiles as she approaches her niece. "Lady Ashlee," she says, "Is Maester Baelor still under his scrolls and maps?" Her smile fades slightly, "Should we walk and talk? It has been awhile."
#229: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Fri Aug 01, 2014 10:30 am
    ----
"That it has, lady aunt." Ashlee is happy to oblige and does not hide it. "Do lead the way."
#230: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Mon Aug 04, 2014 2:11 pm
    ----
Lady Gwyn takes Ashlee by the arm, leading her out into the small garden she has been working on recently. "Have you been finding everything to your satisfaction here? I know things have been busy," she says, perhaps the tone suggests she lamenting her loss of involvement in it all.
#231: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Mon Aug 04, 2014 3:07 pm
    ----
"Well, I can hardly find cause to complain" Ashlee's gratitude is not false, even if the response is trained and rehearsed beyond count. Little bird chirping the words it has learned, or so Ser Chartan once remarked. Maybe he was his usual rude self, though might be he did not understand how these little trained responses did not create more trouble, the seven knows that the realm has more than enough of it already. And this time, it was a very polite way of saying that there was a but to it, yet it was no complain.

"Though I do find myself somewhat restless, and the maester's preoccupation is not helping. And, well, if you do not mind, there is a matter someone inside lord Mikel's inner circle ought to know of, ordinary Baelor would be the one to consult, but it may be more urgent than his availability may permit...." Ashlee's trained bird chirping serves to find words without much thought being needed, which is good, as she needs time to think on how to say the words that comes next, her brother, whatever made her think of him now, can go fuck himself.

"I had a conversation with Ovryn and his guest, Septa Wylla, come from the motherhouse to instruct Freila in the teachings of the seven, the details are unimportant though at least the septa seemed to be of the opinion that Timon ought to become a squire, preferably to a strict pious knight far away from red witches" Ashlee resists the urge to add more to the picture, the truth, sans Ashlee's little manipulation, ought to serve her purposes. "I do believe I managed to stall her from marching straight to Lord Mikel with such a suggestion, I imagine he wouldn't be all too pleased at that, especially if he already has something in mind." Ashlee has plenty to add on the subject, but stops herself, Gwyn ought to know as well as her that Timon will be a nobody in the Reach without knighthood. And besides, Ashlee wants her to talk, only Baelor would make for a more fortuitous ally in this matter, and perhaps she knows something Ashlee does not?
#232: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Tue Aug 05, 2014 9:35 am
    ----
Lady Gwyn listens to Ashlee patiently, allowing her to talk and tell her tale. When she's finished, Lady Gwyn smiles slightly, "A septa has no influence on who a Lord squires his son to, worry not about that." Gwyn does not seem particularly concerned that Timon will be shipped off, which is not exactly what Ashlee might want to hear. "I believe that when Lyonel returns Timon will take his place at his brother's side as his squire. Colin John has fled his duty and ran away." Gwyn almost laughs, "He'll be stripped of his honor as Lyonel's squire, certainly, if he's not hung by the neck." She stops to smell a particularly colorful flower, and when she returns to Ashlee, comments, "This fighting will separate the wheat from the chaff."
#233: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Tue Aug 05, 2014 11:20 am
    ----
"Squiring at Northmarch, is it?" Ashlee's tone makes it clear enough that she finds that curious, might be that no knight of quality would take Timon, true enough, but might as well chuck him on to Ser Jarl if that was the case. Colin's situation was interesting, but nothing Ashlee cared to get involved in unless prompted to.
#234: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Wed Aug 06, 2014 10:08 am
    ----
"You disapprove?" Lady Gwyn looks over at her niece questionly. "Which would be worse, a knighthood from his father, or brother, or dishonoring the family by getting a Lord's daughter with child?"

She stands up from the flower, "I know which I would choose. But, either way, the boy needs guidence and temperance. He seems to be taking his life more seriously, though, which has made his mother greatly happy.
#235: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Trogdor, Location: Northern Virginia PostPosted: Wed Aug 06, 2014 10:15 am
    ----
Baelor steps into the room and gives a bow to Lady Gwyn. "I understand that someone wished to speak to me?" he asks.
#236: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Wed Aug 06, 2014 10:17 am
    ----
Gwyn turns and looks over to Baelor, nodding, "I believe that was Ashlee," she says, looking to the girl. "I am happy to explore the gardens," she says, "I will talk to you later." Lady Gwyn starts to meander away, stopping and smelling the flowers here and there.
#237: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Thu Aug 07, 2014 4:01 am
    ----
The wall doesn't have any noble women Ashlee thinks to herself, but Baelor interrupts the train of thought before it could get anywhere realistic. "Why, yes maester, yes I did. There is one matter on my mind that I should like to consult with you on, there was two, but I believe lady Gwyn has diminished the urgency of the other."
#238: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Wed Aug 13, 2014 10:30 am
    ----
Maester Baelor nods, "Very well, I believe I shall be more or less free later in the day, baring any emergencies." He limps slightly to the side, "We can discuss whatever you have in mind then. However, for the moment, I am simply passing through on my way to check on a few things in town. Even though war is brewing, our market is important to House Cloverwood and the Reach."
#239: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Fri Aug 15, 2014 5:12 am
    ----
"As you say, maester" Ashlee can be content with that.

[x] [ OOC ]
#240: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Tue Aug 19, 2014 9:15 am
    ----
[x] [ OOC ]

Ashlee watches the maester depart, upset at his relative lack of availability these days. She considers what to do next.
#241: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Sun Aug 24, 2014 10:13 am
    ----
July 6th, 298 A.L
Northmarch

Well, with nothing else to do and everyone seemingly quite busy, Ashlee decides to pay a visit to the red temple, that should at least prove to be interesting.
#242: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Mon Aug 25, 2014 11:27 am
    ----
Ashlee finds Yennefer not at her temple, which foils that idea. That afternoon, however, she's summoned back to Baelor's solar. The maester looks up from a huge ledger of accounts. "Hello, my lady, I am sorry for keeping you waiting. I hope you can understand." He lifts the huge book and shrugs his shoulders.

[x] [ OOC ]
#243: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Mon Aug 25, 2014 12:09 pm
    ----
"Taking on a workload fit for three tends to make one rather busy." Ashlee makes no sign of ill will. "Others are left to their own devices and must find ways to pass the time. Such as I." No sense in delaying her business at any rate, the smooth approach might be best sometimes, with Baelor, direct would likely be appreciated. "So, I have been thinking, Lords Ashford and Buckler are not like to give us what we desire, your colleges even less so I imagine, aside from ripping the chain off Drumwell, but that only goes so far...now unless there is an accord with the Tyrells or Baratheons I find myself unaware of, the problem of Yoran Musgood needs be solved by means that are, how shall I say...ah, less permissible by one's liege."

Ashlee seems rather grown up and cynical compared to otherwise as she opens up the subject, she does have the habit of acting the girl when allowed to. "Or so I do find myself to believe, though Lord Adron has added the challenge of stating that he must approve any action against the Musgoods and that he is the one to decide upon my father's fate, which reduces our available options to ones where Lord Mikel takes no actions. At least not directly. After hearing Hevard's tale, and asking Margo about it some, I believe there are some whom might be capable of untangling the dilemma, and that would be the Lanshires." Her eyes studies the maester, patiently waiting for him to take in her words and think them over before adding his own thoughts on the matter.
#244: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 12:16 pm
    ----
There is a knock on the door from Freila. She says, "Excuse the interruption, Maester Baelor, Lady Ashlee, but I am done studying with Septa Wylla and wanted to see if there were any duties you needed to me to carry out here." Freila seems slightly distracted, as if something is bothering her.
#245: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Wed Aug 27, 2014 3:20 pm
    ----
Baelor turns and smiles to Freila, "Yes, come in." He pushes a huge book toward the girl. "Can you sum up the totals of tax revenue on pages ten through eighteen." he sighs, "All from this week, do it twice to check your work." He moves a seat over for the girl to sit in, unconcerned with his servant overhearing Ashlee.

"The Lanshires? How can they help us? Some nefarious plot? Even if they could, why would they help /us/." Baelor shifts in his own seat, seemingly pleased to be done with tedium for awhile. "Hevard nearly killed one of their family, as I was told, or maybe he did. I never heard if the man survived."
#246: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Wed Aug 27, 2014 5:37 pm
    ----
Freila sits down to do the work assigned by Baelor. At first she focuses in on the work, but she quickly realizes that he and Ashlee are talking about something highly significant. She tries to listen to the conversation while doing the work as well--something she knows is probably a bad idea, but she can't help herself.
#247: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Thu Aug 28, 2014 11:53 am
    ----
"He killed one of them, and then they tried to hang him for it before Ovryn came and convinced them that there ought to be a trial by combat, which he won, the Lanshire he faced that time was still alive when they departed, or so I heard." Ashlee doesn't seem to think that matters all that much. "Convincing them to work for Northmarch would be quite challenging, and Lord Ashford would likely not approve of it. However, I do not have those particular problems."
#248: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Thu Aug 28, 2014 12:48 pm
    ----
Maester Baelor leans backward, "And what would you have them do?" He looks at Ashlee, a hint of interest moving over his face. Perhaps he would be agreeable to some plan not approved by House Ashford.
#249: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Thu Aug 28, 2014 2:08 pm
    ----
"Ideally manage to bring my father and brother here so that Lord Mikel might send them to the wall." Ashlee had that answer prepared at least. "I do not think a daughter and a sister should advocate something more definite than that." Though her tone suggests that she isn't too concerned with the idea of having them killed. While she would much rather have them at the wall, she is pragmatic enough to know that would be a much more complicated endavour than to simply murder them.
#250: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Thu Aug 28, 2014 2:12 pm
    ----
Baelor does not look particularly convinced. "To the Wall you say? Lord Mikel has no authority over your father. Even if we could force him to the Wall, Lord Yoran could simply turn around and leave. The Black Brothers would have no grounds to hold him." The maester shakes his head, dismissing that idea.
#251: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Muskrat, Location: Chicago PostPosted: Thu Aug 28, 2014 6:37 pm
    ----
Freila listens intently, realizing she is listening in on a fairly heavy political conversation. This will definitely be of educational value--perhaps that is why Maester Baelor is letting her listen.
#252: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Fri Aug 29, 2014 9:30 am
    ----
"Should my father be brought here and a knight or lady would happen to accuse him of breaking the king's peace..then there must be a trial." Ashlee puts it bluntly. "Though I do realize that a trial like that would not be quite so simple as I just made it sound."
#253: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: TetNak, Location: Northmarch PostPosted: Sun Aug 31, 2014 7:34 pm
    ----
"Brought here?"

Baelor shakes his head, "And how would we do that? He could easily accuse us, and, well rightly I would say, of taking him prisoner. I am sorry, Lady Ashlee, your plan makes shows no promise as far as I can tell." It seems Baelor wouldn't be so totally opposed to something he found that had a reasonable chance of success with deniability.
#254: Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of Thrones Author: Zorbeltuss,  PostPosted: Mon Sep 01, 2014 12:26 am
    ----
"Bringing them here would be where the Lanshires come in, and if Lord Mikel did not hire them, then he could hardly be blamed for the act, now could he?" Ashlee smiles thinly, at least that part she had figured out. "Now whether they might succeed at this endavour is another matter."
#255:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: Northmarch PostPosted: Tue Sep 02, 2014 11:58 am
    ----
"It would likely all fall on Lord Mike's shoulders," Baelor says, "Lord Adron is not so stupid not to read between the lines, my Lady. If they were brought here, I think Lord Adron would take that as a direct disregard of his orders."
#256:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Tue Sep 02, 2014 4:58 pm
    ----
Freila continues to try to listen and work on the accounting at the same time. She has nothing to say, since this is way out of her league--and it would be highly presumptuous of her to add anything in any case.July 6th, 298 A.L Northmarch


#257:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Wed Sep 03, 2014 10:32 am
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"So if we cannot bring them here, then what options are there?" Ashlee can guess, but she guards herself well from actually saying those particular words.
#258:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Thu Sep 04, 2014 3:28 pm
    ----
"Hopefully our influence with House Tyrell will allow us some favors with them." Baelor consides Ashlee, "If we play our part in this conflict that is likely to break free from the dam, well, we will perhaps have enough to beg an investigation of House Musgood. With House Tyrell giving the order, House Ashford could hardly say no." The maester steeples his hands before him, it is clear that Baelor had somewhat of a plan. "Then, if House Tyrell finds fault with House Musgood, I am sure they could petition House Baratheon for some kind of action."
#259:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Thu Sep 04, 2014 4:20 pm
    ----
"There is at least two if's and one perhaps in that line of reasoning." Ashlee sighs "Too many factors out of our control for my taste, and how long before my father hatches some new foul design? There has been two months for him to brood now."
#260:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Fri Sep 05, 2014 7:05 pm
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Baelor deadpans, "My lady, I am sure you are well meaning, but perhaps you should leave the defense of House Cloverwood to Lord Mikel? I understand your hatred of your father and brother, but I am afraid it is not as easy as you would like it to be. House Cloverwood is growing in influence and prosperity, eyes are looking to us. That protects us and prevents us from doing things we might have gotten away with in previous times. We must be patient and wise. Trust me, no one in this house wants your father to rule Faretown, and certainly not Charlthan after."
#261:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Sat Sep 06, 2014 7:06 am
    ----
"This is as much about the future of my house as it is for that of my cousins" Ashlee remains calm. "Who but me has a concern for the latter? And I dare say that such a drawn out process will only cause more damage to repair in the end."
#262:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Sat Sep 06, 2014 12:00 pm
    ----
Baelor is equally as calm, he shows not emotion whatsoever. "Lady Ashlee, I do not see a workable plan as so far you have put to me. I am not unskilled in such ideas, and as such, I am afraid I do not see bring House Lanshire into this would do anything. House Ashford as given us an edict. And we have no authority to send your father or brother to the Wall."
#263:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Sat Sep 06, 2014 2:35 pm
    ----
"With all due respect, maester, what experience do you have with taking action that resides in the gray area between what is permitted and what one can get away with?" None that Ashlee could think of, Baelor had done everything by the book as far as she was aware, nor did he seem the type for it. "Lord Mikel does have the authority, we both know this, he may not wish to deal with the consequences of disobeying an order from his liege lord, an order which I might add, goes above and beyond what the oath of fealty covers. He can complain all he like about it, and be irritable, but the right to pits and gallows comes from the king, not Ashford." "But if Lord Mikel prefers to hope that the Tyrells might be swayed to put pressure on solving the matter rather than to risk a displeased liege by doing it himself. Then I fear there only remains a single course of action, one that I hope the seven might forgive."

#264:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Sun Sep 07, 2014 11:13 pm
    ----
Baelor smiles inwardly at Ashlee's simple attempt to goad him into action. She was learning quickly. But that was the way of the Game of Thrones. If you didn't learn quickly, you didn't last very long. "It's true," he replies to her initial comment. "My experience with the gray areas of the law is limited. While I was earning my maester's link in law, we only discussed the ramifications of overly broad interpretation of the laws of the kingdom throughout the course of about six months. The matter properly should have consumed the better part of a year." "The simple fact," he continues, "is that if you dance too close to the line, you may find that the line wasn't where you thought it was, and that you've inadvertently crossed it. Then, you must suffer the consequences of your violation of the law. The powers that be care little for excuses when their commands are not just ignored, but actively opposed." Furthermore, even if there were a technicality to get around the letter of the law, there is still the matter of the spirit of the Lord Adron's command. Whether or not Lord Mikel could 'get away with' seizing your father and brother and successfully sending them to the Wall - a plan fraught with so many potential pitfalls that I would hesitate to advise pursuing it even if direct retaliation against House Musgood hadn't been forbidden - doing so would certainly infuriate Lord Adron. For he would clearly see what Lord Mikel had done - willfully circumvented Lord Adron's clear intentions. In such a case, even if he could not convict Lord Mikel in court of violating his orders - a questionable proposition - there are many, many ways that an angry liege lord can retaliate against one of his vassals. In addition, there is the distinct possibility that Lord Mace will be angered as well. For disobeying the spirit of Lord Adron's command would show a marked disrespect for authority on the part of House Cloverwood. Lord Mace may not wish to foster such an attitude among his vassals." "As for Lord Adron's command being beyond the bounds of Lord Mikel's oath of fealty, the answer is not nearly so clear as you would have it be. Lord Adron has commanded one of his vassals not to take any action that would weaken another of the king's vassals without gaining his permission first. In these trying times, one could easily interpret that as a military command, well within the bounds of Lord Mikel's oath. " "Simply put," the young maester says with a shake of his head, "Lord Mikel has no intention of placing himself, or his house, in a position where the the best result he could hope for is that he gains the enmity of his liege lord, and the worst is that he is convicted of violating a lawful command of his liege lord." "Also," Baelor adds, "If I may, allow me to identify the greatest hurdle that your plan faces. You say that we both know that Lord Mikel has the authority to send your father and brother to the Wall. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Your father is a vassal of Lord Ralph; Lord Mikel is a vassal of Lord Adron. If charged with a crime - certainly a crime serious enough to warrant condemnation into the Night's Watch - your father and brother both have the right to demand that the trial be presided over by Lord Ralph or perhaps Lord Adron, who are both unlikely to look kindly upon the actions that would precipitate such a trial. What's more, there is even a colorable argument that your father could make that his trial should be presided over by one of your liege's lieges. That means Lord Mace or King Robert himself. There are few enough lords and fewer still crimes that would result in being sent to the Wall that it might be deserving of such high attention. And I assure you, we are unlikely to fare well if this matter comes before the king - at least with what evidence we have now." "Yes, Lord Mikel has the right to condemn smallfolk resident in his own domain to the Wall, under the right circumstances. But your father is neither smallfolk nor a resident of Cloverwood lands. Rather, he is a noble, equal in the eyes of the law to Lord Mikel. Should we successfully send your father and brother physically to the Wall, the plan would dissolve at that point. Long before he was bound by the oath of the Night's Watch, your father would demand justice. And the maesters of the Night's Watch are clever enough to know that your father would have been illegally sent to the Wall. They would not risk the displeasure of the southern nobility - and possibly the king himself - for the sake of two fighters. Your father and brother would be sent back south, where they would be free to bring charges up against Lord Mikel - charges that would have a much greater chance of sticking than those made against your father and brother." Baelor smiles. "My dear Ashlee, You equate being condemned to the Wall with being sworn into the Night's Watch. But they are two entirely different things. Unless the latter happens, the occurrence of the former matters not at all." "I appreciate your desire to revenge yourself upon your father. And I assure you that Lord Mikel shares that goal. But he will not, under any circumstances, risk the well-being of House Cloverwood to achieve it. We are happy to discuss any plan that you have. But in each case, Lord Mikel will make his own assessment of the viability of such plans." "And may I add, if your 'single course of action' involves murder or assassination, then you will pursue that avenue without even the tacit approval of Lord Mikel."

















#265:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Mon Sep 08, 2014 4:09 am
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"That is where custom and letter of the law differs." Ashlee had thought the maester to at least be know that. "Lord Mikel holds full authority concerning crimes committed on his lands, though I shall agree that placing my father on trial best ought to involve the Tyrells, Lord Adron might not like it, but if one argues that if Lord Mikel should not sit in judgement alone on account of the accused being a lord, then Lord Adron's request as to be the one to decide upon my fathers fate, as he is ultimately sworn to another great house than ourselves." Ashlee allows a small smile, though. "That, however, is not the case for my brother. Both an easier catch and merely a knight....oh, and many reliable witnesses that can place him at the front of the bandit attack, no?"
#266:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Mon Sep 08, 2014 9:15 am
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"I know full well that there are times when the strict letter of the law can be bypassed, times when, as you say, a lord can 'get away with' bending the law to the breaking point. I just don't think that this is one of those times. So, it's not that I don't understand what you're saying; I simply disagree with the bases of your assumptions. "First, I take issue with your proposition that Lord Mikel holds authority concerning crimes committed on his lands. While that is true, there are some very important exceptions, the most significant of which is that he does not have jurisdiction over any acts taken by the nobility, regardless of whether the alleged acts were committed on his land or not. I'm afraid that includes both your father, as a lord, and your brother, as an heir. The nobility have the right to appeal to a High Court, while Lord Mikel can only convene a Low Court. And violating this stricture is not something that would be easily overlooked. The nobility value their right to demand trial in a High Court. They're not about to allow the precedent to be set that a noble, especially a lord, can be tried and sentenced in a Low Court. "Second, I believe that you are incorrect in stating that your brother is merely a knight. While it's true that your brother a knight, that's not his most important title. His prime position is as the heir to House Musgood, which makes him as noble as your father, and equally entitled to be tried in a High Court. Trying him and sending him to the Wall would garner almost as much attention as trying your father - perhaps more so, since your father would be free to rally the opposition against House Cloverwood." "Third, I disagree with your assertion that Lord Adron's authority to command Lord Mikel in this situation is the equivalent of Lord Mikel's authority to try your father or your brother. By trying and sentencing your father or your brother, Lord Mikel would be violating one of the core rights of the nobility, to wit, the right to trial by High Court. Lord Mikel would not even have a colorable argument that such an action could be justified. In contrast, Lord Adron derives his authority from the fact that he is Lord Mikel's liege, and can claim that he's acting to preserve the strength of the army of Westeros. As a result, your conclusion that if Lord Mikel can't send your father and brother to the Wall, then Lord Adron can't order Lord Mikel not to retaliate against House Musgood has no solid basis." Baelor takes a deep breath. "If we were dealing with a hedge knight, who had no one to speak for him, then you're quite correct. Lord Mikel could likely send him to the Wall without anyone making a fuss, even if Lord Mikel didn't technically have the authority to do so. But this is an entirely different situation. Lord Ralph will certainly take umbrage at a petty lord trying to send one of his vassals to the Wall. He would not let the matter stand without taking action. And remember, Lord Ralph is a direct vassal to Lord Renly, brother to King Robert. That means that this matter could easily end up before the king. And I don't think that Lord Mikel would like to be in a situation where he had to explain why he unlawfully sent one of the House Baratheon's vassals to the Wall." "So you see, I apprehend your plan correctly. I just don't think that it's a plan with any chance of success."

fullmostly

is





#267:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Mon Sep 08, 2014 1:46 pm
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"In any case," Baelor adds, "legalities aside, the political costs of such an action would be enormous. It would gain House Cloverwood the enmity of Lord Adron and Lord Ralph, at the very least. And it would run the risk of alienating Lord Mace, Lord Renly, and potentially even King Robert." The maester absently shakes his head. "Maybe if we could turn general opinion against your father and raise some ire about what he did, the costs would come down to a reasonable range. But right now, the attack on Northmarch is our word against his, at least so far as the Major and Great Houses area concerned. If we could change their opinion about the matter, then things might be entirely different."

#268:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Mon Sep 08, 2014 2:41 pm
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"Well, as I have earlier suggested, it may be a wise course of action to sound out Lord Adron for his thoughts. Ashford is not so far away, and the defense of his bannerman ought to be more of a concern of his than it seems to be." Ashlee muses. "If, as I suspect, there has been no more communication since before I first arrived here, I'd say it is high time we learned more." "Then there are the Wyl's, whom I am not certain what role they might feature, though the kidnapping of Lady Tania is not something a house of their stature can afford to go unanswered. Further I do believe I have won Ser Balon to my cause, though that may not count for much as far as Stonehelm goes." "I made the groundwork at Bronzegate though, Lord Ashford remains the political key if more unorthodox means remains off the table."



#269:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Mon Sep 08, 2014 2:54 pm
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"I certainly agree that convincing Lord Adron to soften his position would free us up tremendously with respect to the actions we could take. Unfortunately, the opening of our new marketplace has not endeared us to him. It seems that the gains of the Cloverwood market are the losses of the Ashford market. I fear it will do no good to tell him that increasing the local economy will aid both our houses in the long run, and that, given time, the presence of two marketplaces will be to his benefit. A rising tide raises all boats, we say." "Do you have any particular strategy as to how he might be convinced to change his opinion?"

#270:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Mon Sep 08, 2014 3:15 pm
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"If someone from Northmarch were to come to convince him that he should not worry about the market here" Ashlee comments dryly. "Then he is not like to take it well." "On the other hand, if he has a maester or other adviser of more pragmatic bent, then there might be a chance to reach through. One can discuss matters more freely if neither party to the conversation will eventually need to come to a decision."

#271:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Mon Sep 08, 2014 9:36 pm
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"I've had brief communications with his maester," Baelor replies. "He's been cordial, but not warm. I've no reason to believe that the man would have any different views than Lord Adron - though if he has his golden link I might be able to convince him that the addition of a new marketplace is not an entirely bad thing. Perhaps I could propose a joint venture to show them we're not hogging all the profits for ourselves."July 6th, 298 A.L Northmarch


#272:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Tue Sep 09, 2014 1:58 am
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"Better to appeal to his rationality" Ashlee offers. "His grasp of economy may not equal yours, but I give it fair chances that an older maester is wise enough to realize that we are not going to demolish the Northmarch market just because Lord Ashford would like us to. Pragmatism would dictate that they ought to accept it and move on."
#273:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Tue Sep 09, 2014 7:27 am
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"Mayhap that would work," Baelor replies. "We maesters supposed to temper the lords we serve. Still, I don't see Ashford giving up without at least a little bit of a fight. Still, the effort is more than worth it."are
#274:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Tue Sep 09, 2014 8:01 am
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"Besides, Lord Mikel could rightly feel neglected from his liege and supposed protector as far as the attack goes." Ashlee makes a wry smile. "And an ambitious Lord of Northmarch would explore his options as far as lieges goes. All that may be required is for just cause to believe that Lord Adron is not upholding his obligations as a protector." "It would be wise of him to strive to show that he holds the prosperity of his vassals in high regard."

#275:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Tue Sep 09, 2014 12:36 pm
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Freila is having trouble focusing on the accounting. The conversation Maester Baelor and Lady Ashlee are having is very educational.
#276:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Tue Sep 16, 2014 12:45 pm
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Despite the distraction, Freila has finished with the accounting. She lingers a little while longer, listening, but then feels guilty and quietly leaves. She goes looking for Ovryn or Mattie.
#277:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Wed Sep 17, 2014 2:34 am
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"Though Lord Mikel would be wise to remember that Lord Adron is more powerful, better connected, and generally in better with Lord Mace." Baelor holds up a hand. "I'm not saying that your suggestion has no merit. It's a good angle to pursue. But I am saying that it's also a very delicate matter, and one we have to address with care."
#278:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Thu Sep 18, 2014 1:03 pm
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"Lord Mikel may not even need to pursue that route for the Ashfords to be weary of the possibility." Ashlee muses. "Whereas Lord Adron may have been in a position to enforce his will just a few months ago. Northmarch are now in compliance with his every demand, no? The lands are Lord Mikel's to do as he pleases with. What can he do about our market? Burn it? If he wanted his other lords bannermen to all abandon him along with us, that would do it." "House Cloverwood is growing to the point where Lord Adron ought to start treating it more like an equal than a subject, or else he runs the very real risk of no longer having it as a vassal. That is the truth of it. If we ask nicely for things that does not cost him much, it would be wise of him to be generous."

#279:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Thu Sep 25, 2014 10:40 am
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"It's true," Baelor replies. "The position of House Cloverwood has taken a significant turn for the better in the last several months. It has gained more stature, more wealth, and a larger force of men. However, we would do well to remember where it was just a year ago. Memories are long, and not just that of those in House Asford. Many might consider Cloverwood to be an upstart house. Such people might follow a request from Lord Adron not to patronize our market. You're right, of course, he can't do anything to harm our marketplace. But that leaves him many, more subtle options." "Alas, I do not share your view that House Cloverwood has grown to the point where it should be considered the equal of House Ashford. The house has grown quickly, and in a good direction. But it still has a way to go. House Ashford is significantly more wealthy than Cloverwood, has more influence, has a better reputation, has a larger force of arms, and is generally in a position to make House Cloverwood's position very difficult if they wish to. Pushing things too far at this stage runs the risk of losing many of the gains we've already achieved. Perhaps I'm too conservative. However, in some ways that's my job." overt



[ OOC ]
[x]
#280:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Thu Sep 25, 2014 1:14 pm
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"Not equal no, but prominent enough that a wise liege lord ought not act as if he may take the loyalty of Northmarch for granted." Ashlee remarks. "Nor should Lord Mikel act anything but humble. Which is why we should ask nicely, and Lord Adron should grant us our small wishes if we do."
#281:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Mon Sep 29, 2014 1:53 pm
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"I'm not sure I'd characterize House Cloverwood as prominent enough that a wise liege lord ought not act as if he may take the loyalty of Northmarch for granted," Baelor replies. "Obviously, I have pride in House Cloverwood and am working to its best ends. But with that goal in mind, I can't afford to paint things as rosier than they are. The sad fact is that House Cloverwood is barely above House Musgood in most people's opinion. We're starting to shed that reputation. But that process is painfully slow. It may be that a good marriage or two will accelerate things. I hope it will. Bit for the moment, we're still in a precarious position, and so we have to tread lightly.

[ OOC ]
[x]best


#282:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Thu Oct 02, 2014 3:44 am
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"A wise liege lord will never take the loyalty of any banner for granted, but given the connections recently established between here and Wyl and Highgarden both, and the growing prosperity of Northmarch....I think it would be rather foolish." A pity that Baelor's was not as capable in the game of thrones than he was counting dragons, but something would be left for Ashlee to do. "But Lord Adron is only a man. My recommendation that a delegation visits Ashford to get an idea on where the wind might be blowing on various matters stands."
#283:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Thu Oct 02, 2014 7:04 pm
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Ashee and Baelor can agree to disagree. Ashlee thinks Lord Mikel has some sort of advantage over Lord Adron, but there's no sign of that being so. In fact, Lord Adron had even recently found Lady Gwyn, who was the acting as the steward at the time, for all purposed, was withholding tithes. Things are more more precarious for Ashlee than she knows. But, she is a child, with no formal experience in any of these things...
#284:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Fri Oct 03, 2014 12:02 pm
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Baelor shakes his head after Ashlee leaves. The girl had a fine head for intrigue. But she also had some lofty ideas about what was possible. Nothing ever went entirely according to plan. And just because the law says something is so, doesn't mean that's the way things will fall out in real life. She'd find this all out for herself in time. The real question is how much damage she'd do to her cause in the meanwhile."
#285:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Fri Oct 03, 2014 1:55 pm
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Hopefully, Lord Mikel would turn out to be more ambitious, and someone would likely have to go to Ashford either way. Ashlee has already brushed the maester out of her head and goes on towards the next place that might offer something of interest or use. She sets her course towards the red temple, she had not even been inside yet. That ought to be excuse enough for a visit, no? She'd probably have to think up a better one for the septa if it came to that though, but that does sounds like a nice way to pass the time until she gets there.

#286:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Fri Oct 03, 2014 3:14 pm
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Baelor then turns to find Lord Mikel. As much as he'd like to forget his conversation with Ashlee, he knows that Lord Mikel will want to know what she's planning.
#287:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Wed Oct 08, 2014 9:17 am
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Baelor makes his way to Lord Mikel's quarters. When he finds the Lord of Northmarch, Mikel is seated at his table with his eyes closed. Sleeping heavily after a lack of slumber the night before. July 6th, 298 A.L Northmarch




[ OOC ]
[x]
#288:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Tue Oct 14, 2014 9:37 am
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Baelor quietly closes the door, allowing Lord Mikel to sleep. Nothing he had to say wouldn't wait. And if he was this tired, the sleep would do him well. What's more, this would save him the embarrassment of being caught sleeping at his table. The maester gives Lord Mikel's servants word that he is not to be disturbed, and moves to his solar to get some other work done, returning to the lord's chamber some time later, having given him enough time for a restful nap.

#289:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Tue Oct 14, 2014 12:03 pm
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The next morning Baelor is forced to address a message he's recieved from the south. Lyonel's men have found traces of battle near the Boneway. The dead included scouts from House Cloverwood, soldiers from House Wyl, and the black manticore of House Lorch, an infamous knightly house sword to House Lannister. Lyonel and his men are said to be investigating the Boneway. War, it seems, has come already. Lord Mikel, oblivious to these facts, sits at his desk rubbing the back of his neck. He waves Baelor in, "I slept like a dolt, my neck is killing me," he comments.July 7th, 298 Lord Mikel's Solar




#290:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Sun Oct 19, 2014 2:55 pm
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"Good morning, my lord," Baelor says, as he limps into the solar. "I'm sorry for your neck. I can try massaging the muscles for you. That may help a bit." Then, after addressing Lord Mikel's sore neck, he places the report from the South in front of him. "It seems that war is upon us already. I recommend we step up our patrols, get our troops in a greater state of readiness, and to send an escorted messenger to the Boneway to warn them of what we found. It's likely that their own scouts have discovered this. But in case they have not, it would do us well to give them a warning."

#291:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Sun Oct 19, 2014 5:18 pm
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"Damn it all," Mikel curses. "Maester, all our men are in the field with Lyonel, save the castle guard and constabulary." He shakes his head, "This report says Lyonel found House Wyl among the dead. Maester, House Wyl, as I might remind you, is on their way here. To potentially broker a marriage. Lord Aylen is with their numbers, so I am very sure they know. Send the messenger back and gather more news. And pray to the Seven to keep Lyonel safe."
#292:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Mon Oct 27, 2014 8:14 am
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Baelor nods. "I'll attend to that immediately."
#293:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Mon Oct 27, 2014 8:52 am
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"Is there anything else?" Lord Mikel asks. As he does, behind Baelor, Freila sticks her head in, likely needing to speak to Baelor as she would not interrupt the maester with Lord Mikel if not important.

#294:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Mon Oct 27, 2014 11:53 am
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Freila curtseys neatly and then says hurriedly, "I'm sorry to interrupt, My Lord, but I thought this is something you might want to act on quickly. I've spotted what I think is a spy in town. I was in the marketplace and saw a man who was walking around without buying anything--and when I asked the merchants, they said he had said little as well. I followed him till he staked on Yennefer's temple and he watched who came in and out--which, ah, included Lady Ashlee." She says the last uncomfortable, hoping she is not betraying the lady. "He spoke to another man--all I heard was 'Heretics. Ashford. Market.' After that, I left to alert you, My Lord and Maester Baelor."
#295:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Tue Nov 04, 2014 9:31 am
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"Nothing more, my lord," Baelor says with a bow. But then Freila shows up with her report about a spy. Baelor looks thoughtful for a moment, then shakes his head. "Very good, Freila," he says with a smile of approval. "My first inclination, my lord," he says to Lord Mikel., "is to try and use this man to plant false information. But from what Freila says, it sounds as if this might be a spy from House Ashford. And while I should very much like to keep them from spying on us, I should be very hesitant to do anything to antagonize them overmuch." "My suggestion is that we bring this man in for questioning. Make it clear that we know who he is and why he is here, but take no offensive action against him. If he was sent from Ashford, this will send a message to Lord Adron that we are clever enough to spot his spies, but not so troublesome as to punish them for their actions. And if he was not sent from Ashford, then questioning will give us a chance to try and determine where he actually was sent from."





#296:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Tue Nov 04, 2014 9:36 am
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Lord Mikel appears aggitated. His son being off at war and now Ashford snooping about has his face red in anger. "Bring him in." It is unclear if Lord Mikel will follow Maester Baelor's suggestion or not past that. "And send up a bottle of wine."
#297:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Tue Nov 04, 2014 12:27 pm
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Freila feels distinctly, uncomfortable, though she tries not to show it. Seeing Lord Mikel angry, even if the anger is not directed at her, is a bit intimidating. Nonetheless, she asks, "Do you want me to go with the soldiers, My Lord, so I can identify the spy? If he's left his spot near Yennefer's temple, they won't have a way of figuring out who he is."
#298:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Tue Nov 04, 2014 12:29 pm
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"Yes, girl," Lord Mikel answers. "Go with the men and point out this spy. Maester Baelor, alert Ser Shanar and have his castle guard handle it. Leave Hevard's men out of it. We need to do this with grace."
#299:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Tue Nov 04, 2014 12:43 pm
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Freila curtseys to Lord Mikel and prepares to follow Maester Baelor, as he seeks out Ser Shanar.
#300:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Mon Nov 17, 2014 6:42 pm
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Maester Baelor stops a few feet outside the room, "Can you go find the knight, I need to retire to my room for a moment. I believe I should write a letter to be sent to Wyl so that they might know their forces have been attacked. Deliver Lord Mikel's message ..." He waves Freila off to do as he bids.
#301:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Tue Nov 18, 2014 12:50 pm
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Freila says, "Ah, yes, Maester Baelor ... but can you give me some token of authority? I'm not sure the knights would listen to me, especially Ser Shanar who is new here and may not know that I'm your assistant."
#302:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Tue Nov 18, 2014 4:59 pm
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Baelor gives the girl a curt nod and waves her back to his solar which is only a few steps away. Baelor limps over to his desk and sits down, quickly scrawling something out for the girl. "He might not be able to read," the maester states, "If so, well, you can send him up if needed." He passes the letter over to Freila. It simply states, "My assistant Freila has come to inform you of a spy in our midst. Please take her information as a direction from Lord Mikel." Signed, "Maester Baelor." "No need having him return here if he will just take your word or the letter's authenticity. We should not waste time."

#303:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Tue Nov 18, 2014 5:26 pm
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"Yes, sir," says Freila and runs off at top speed through the castle, to where the headquarters of the castle guard is. If Ser Shanar is not there, they should certainly know where he is. And if he isn't available, then she find out who is in charge at the moment.
#304:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Thu Nov 20, 2014 12:14 pm
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Freila is directed to Ser Shanar who stands on the battlements of one of the inside walls of the castle. The young man turns an looks over Freila as she comes near. He lifts his brows wondering what she is doing here, but like his moniker suggests, he says nothing.
#305:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Thu Nov 20, 2014 12:53 pm
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"Hello, Ser Shanar," says Freila, between gasps, not stopping to catch her breath. "I've been sent with a message from Maester Baelor and Lord Mikel." She offers the message from Baelor to the knight. "When I was in town, I saw someone who was pretty clearly a spy. Lord Mikel would like you to take some of your men and go arrest him. I'll go with you to point him out to you. Last time I saw him, he was lurking near the temple to the Red God. Lord Mikel would like us to move quickly to make sure we catch him."
#306:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Thu Nov 20, 2014 12:58 pm
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Ser Shanar takes the note but does not read it. "I see," he says flatly. "Well, I suppose we should go see who this spy is." Shanar steps passed the girl and moves along the battlement toward the steps down. Along the way he recuits three men to come with them. "Take us to the spy," he says to Freila without hesitation.

#307:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Fri Nov 21, 2014 12:55 pm
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Freila leads the men through the streets as quickly as possible, but finds herself wondering how easy it will be to arrest the spy, even if she can find him. He might well run when he sees a group of guards approaching. As they reach the temple, she slows down the pace so that their presence is less likely to alarm anyone and tries to lead them a roundabout way, so they will be approaching the spy from the back--if he still is where Freila last saw him.
#308:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Sun Nov 23, 2014 5:06 pm
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Freila leads Shanar through the streets of Northmarch followed by three other guards. For nearly a half hour they move about the town, looking where the girl had last seen the man and boy. There's no sign of them now as far as Freila can see.
#309:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Mon Nov 24, 2014 1:13 pm
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"Damn," says Freila, language hardly appropriate to a twelve year old girl or an aspiring septa. She thinks for a moment, then says, "I asked around about him earlier. Let me do it again and see if anyone can tell me anything." She pauses, then suggests, a little awkwardly, "Why don't you hang back while I talk to people--I think they'll speak a little more freely to me if I'm alone than if there are soldiers with me." She goes to the market and begins talking to the merchants she spoke with earlier, trying to see if they know which way the man went. "I've remembered who he is now and I'd really like a chance to speak with him."



[ Spoiler ]
[x]
#310:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Mon Nov 24, 2014 2:47 pm
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Once Freila leaves, Baelor walks over to the Lord's Solar and knocks on the door. Lord Mikel should be informed of the possible spy in town.
#311:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Tue Nov 25, 2014 10:02 am
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*** Freila *** Freila instructs Shanar to hold back with his men. He nods and does as the girl asks. Freila moves around the marketplace asking here and there, and finds that she wasn't the only one that saw the man or that he made an impression on. One merchant selling dyed cloth insists he saw the man go into Zeb's, a local brothel and inn.



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#312:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Tue Nov 25, 2014 10:04 am
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*** Baelor *** Baelor limps over to Mikel's solar a few feet away and knocks on the door. "Come in!" Mikel is looking over maps of what appears to be the Dornish Marches again. They are very old and the dust in the room is clear. Mikel must have dug them out from somewhere.

#313:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Tue Nov 25, 2014 11:38 am
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**** Freila **** Freila thanks the man and then returns to the soldiers and says, "Ser Shanar, one of the merchants I spoke to said he saw the spy go into Zeb's." There is a look of distaste on her face as the place's name. She has no real desire to go into the brothel, but she suppose she needs to. "Let's go over there. Maybe you might want to station one or two of your men outside to make sure he doesn't try to escape out a window?"

#314:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Wed Nov 26, 2014 2:16 pm
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*** Freila *** Shanar leads Freila toward Zebs. He is new to town, or relatively so, but he knows the way. "I want you to go inside and see if he's there. A young girl won't draw any concern, even in a place such as this. If my men walk in, the man might have concern to flee. We will watch the exits." He nods to the young girl.

#315:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Wed Nov 26, 2014 2:27 pm
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*** Freila *** Freila isn't sure about the wisdom of the knight's suggestion. "Ser Shanar, I agree with you that I would probably attract less attention. But what if the man catches wind of what I'm up to as I ask around and decides to attack me? I probably won't be able to defend myself, never mind arrest him."

#316:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Wed Nov 26, 2014 2:33 pm
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*** Freila *** Ser Shanar looks at her blankly. "Just see if he's there. You do not have to ask a thing." He waves Freila toward the door.

#317:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Thu Nov 27, 2014 6:00 pm
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*** Freila *** Freila nods slowly, takes a deep breath and walks into the brothel, blusing scarlet. She stops just inside, craning her neck to see if she can easily identify the man she saw earlier. If not, she walks some way into the room, toward the bar, still looking around.

#318:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Mon Dec 01, 2014 2:37 pm
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Inside, Freila sees a few men, and women, sitting about in the common room. The girls all wear find dresses that expose the tops of their breasts. Those dresses are, well, beautiful and match even what Lady Wen and Gwyn wear. Though theirs are much less provocative. Freila does not see the older man, but she does spot the young one with the whispy blond mustache. He sits alone with a tankard of ale, sipping every one in a few moments. He does not seem to notice Freila as far as she can tell.
#319:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 1:08 pm
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Freila pauses, observing the younger man. He may well know where the other man is ... but she's feelings to embarrassed to go back out without more information for Ser Shanar. She suspects the other man is likely up in a room ... engaged with one of the brothel's women, but she decides to confirm it. She goes up to the barkeep and says, "I'm looking for someone ..." and gives his description. She adds hastily, "The person I'm apprenticing for has business with him and has been trying to find him. If he's here, there's no need to go fetch him--I just want to make sure it's worth my time waiting for him to, ah, come down." As the barkeep replies, Freila tries to focus on his voice and face to tell if he's telling the truth.

[ Spoiler ]
[x]
#320:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Thu Dec 04, 2014 11:04 am
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The man behind the bar is named Zeb. Freila has seen him a few times before, and he got her attention because he is clearly foreign. He's not unlike Jenos the Braavosi, but from what she's heard, the man is from Pentos, one of the other Free Cities. The man's black and grey hair is slicked back, and his clean shaven face has a sheen of grease or lotion on it. He smiles, sporting a gold tooth in front, "Oh, what man? Many men come to Zeb's. None like to be interrupted. And less like their business being told to girls, eh?"
#321:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Thu Dec 04, 2014 11:36 am
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Freila forces a smile on her and continues blushing. "I'm not trying to interrupt--I just want to know if I should wait for him here. My master was quite clear that I should find him." She repeats her description of the man.

[ OOC ]
[x]
#322:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Thu Dec 04, 2014 1:00 pm
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"I see," the Pentoshi says. "Interesting ..." Suddenly, Zeb's eyes look over Freila toward someone else. "What do you want?" the boy with the wispy mustache asks. He's got his arms crossed over his chest, looking less than pleased.



#323:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Fri Dec 05, 2014 12:42 pm
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"I ... I was just looking for someone," says Freila, stepping away from the Pentoshi and towards the door, getting ready to run if she has to. "I was just following the instructions of my master. I wasn't about to go upstairs and cause trouble or anything." She tries to seem as harmless and inconsequential as possible--and as though she's intimidated by the situation, which shouldn't be hard, because she is.

[ Spoiler ]
[x]
#324:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Mon Dec 08, 2014 10:39 am
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The young man nods slowly, seemingly less aggitated. "Okay, so who is your master, what is it they want?" The 'man' rubs his mustache as he waits for an answer. Freila thinks that he speaks with an air of authority that does not fit a spy, but instead, nobility.

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#325:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Mon Dec 08, 2014 5:53 pm
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"M .. my master is a trader, a merchant," Freila says. "I'm really not sure everything he deals with--I only recently started working for him." She continues to back cautiously toward the door as she speaks, away from the Pentoshi. She doesn't really know what the spy's cover story is, but she hopes something about a merchant would be vaguely plausible, since they often deal with people from distant places.

[ Spoiler ]
[x]
#326:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Tue Dec 09, 2014 2:44 pm
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*** Baelor *** "I have sent a contingent of soldiers with Freila to apprehend the spy. We should discuss what to do with him once he's brought in. You could have him killed, of course. That's well within your rights as a punishment for such an action. But I recommend that he be questioned first to determine who he was sent by, and any details we can obtain about how he was to report."

#327:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Wed Dec 10, 2014 4:36 pm
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*** Freila *** "Fine. Have your master come here, I am sure Ser Gromwell won't mind talking to someone briefly." The young man walks back toward the table and takes a seat, drinking from the tankard again and giving Freila her leave. *** Baelor *** "Perhaps, perhaps not, maester." Mikel nods, "Bring him to me and we shall find out his true nature."





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#328:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Wed Dec 10, 2014 5:00 pm
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*** Freila *** Freila breaths a silent sigh of relief and says, "Yes, sir. I'll be sure to tell my master." She slips out the door and goes to Ser Shanar. "An accomplice of the spy is downstairs having a drink--I can point him out to you. The spy himself seems to be, ah, upstairs with a woman. But I know he's there because when I asked for a man of his description, the accomplice came over and questioned me. I managed to convince him I was looking for the man on behalf of my master--which I guess is sort of true--and he let me go. But I think you'll need to get Zeb to tell you exactly where the spy is."

#329:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Wed Dec 10, 2014 5:17 pm
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*** Freila *** "Ok," Shanar says, "Come with me and point him out." Shanar then walks into the room along with two of his men with Freila in tow.

#330:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Thu Dec 11, 2014 11:11 am
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*** Freila *** Freila follows Ser Shanar and his men in. She's proud that she managed to track down the spy, but she's also nervous that something will go wrong. As they enter, she points to the Pentoshi and says, "There he is," to Ser Shanar. "You'll have to ask the barkeep where upstairs the other one is. But they said his name is Ser Gromwell."

#331:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Thu Dec 18, 2014 3:14 pm
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*** Freila *** "Ser Gromwell?" The man turns around and looks at the knight, then slowly at the girl. "I see," he says, "Come to arrest me, have you?" He smiles, showing no fear for a young boy. "My brother is upstairs, Ser Gromwell Ashford." Ser Shanar is relatively new to Northmarch, and does not know the political climate. Freila, of coruse, knows that if what the boy says is true, he's the son of Lord Ashford, as is his brother, this Ser Gromwell.July 6th, 298 A.L. Northmarch








Last edited by TetNak on Mon Jan 05, 2015 12:14 pm; edited 1 time in total

#332:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Thu Dec 18, 2014 5:47 pm
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*** Freila *** Freila says, "Lord Mikel would like to speak to you. He intends no harm to you, but would like to know what you are doing here. I'm sure he'd prefer it if you came along voluntarily, but his orders were that you be brought to him." Freila knows she's a little out of her league here dealing with powerful nobles, but she's not sure what else to do but see that Lord Mikel's orders are carried out. Hopefully, the two men will come voluntarily. If not ...

#333:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Fri Dec 19, 2014 10:50 am
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"That depends on my brother," the youth states. "He is questioning some of the whores." He sits back down, looking unconcerned. Shanar frowns, "I will go collect him." He waves for his men to stay. It takes a few moments but Shanar returns with the man Freila had seen. Ser Gromwell looks at the common room with a smile. "I will see your Lord. Come on Klein."

#334:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Fri Dec 19, 2014 1:35 pm
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**** Freila **** Freila breathes a sigh of relief--she was worried that things might get messy. "Thank you, my lords," she says, "For agreeing to see Lord Mikel in such unusual circumstances." But she finds herself wondering why Lord Ashford would send his own sons to spy on Cloverwood. Were his concerns that serious? And surely he had had men with better training to act as spies? She also wondered if Ser Gromwell was truly questioning the prostitutes--and what he expected to find out from them--or if that was a cover story for even less savory activity. Freila tries to search her memory what she knows about Lord Ashford's sons. Freila says, "Ser Shanar, I assume you can escort their lordships to Lord Mikel without my help." Turning to the Ashfords, she says, "If you will excuse me, I will go ahead to make sure that you are properly received." And to warn Lord Mikel that the two people they had just kinda sorta arrested were the children of Lord Ashford. She suspected he would want some warning about this unexpected development. If no one objects, Freila runs back to the castle and to Lord Mikel's quarters as quickly as she can.



[ Spoiler ]
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#335:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Sat Dec 27, 2014 10:55 am
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Freila knows that Ser Gromwell was here several months ago investigating missing taxes levies from House Cloverwood. And through Freila's close work with Baelor, she also knows that Lady Gwyn had been withholding those tithes inappropriately and faced a penalty that Baelor had negotiated. Ser Gromwell, and his younger brother and squire, Keln, had been apart of it all. What they were doing here now is a mystery. Freila asks Shanar to escort them to the castle, while she sprints to beat them there to inform Maester Baelor.
#336:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Mon Dec 29, 2014 12:30 pm
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Freila continues to run ahead to see if she can find Maester Baelor or Lord Mikel. The fact that these are most likely Lord Ashford's sons only adds urgency to her steps.
#337:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Mon Jan 05, 2015 1:05 pm
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Maester Baelor and Mikel can be found in the lord's solar, where they are currently discussing in the abstract what to do with a spy in Northmarch.
#338:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Mon Jan 05, 2015 1:15 pm
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Freila rushes into the Lord's solar. Baelor and Mikel are there, and the girl can report her findings to them.
#339:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Mon Jan 05, 2015 5:18 pm
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Panting for breath, Freila gasps out, "Lord Mikel, Maester Balor, Ser Shanar has the spy--and the man I saw him whispering to. But they claim to be Lord Ashford's sons, Sers Gromwell and Keln." She pauses to catch her breath, then continues. "I came ahead so you decide how you want to receive them. They agreed to come without any violence, so you need not worry about any harm having been done them." She adds, with obvious distaste. "We found them at Zeb's. Ser Gromwell was supposedly questioning the women there." Freila sounds skeptical of that claim.
#340:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Wed Jan 07, 2015 8:34 am
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"Hmm," Baelor says after a moment of consideration. "This complicate matters." He shakes his head. "Lord Ashford has clearly taken an interest in what we're doing here, particularly with respect to the marketplace, I'd wager. He's none too pleased about that. But sending his sons. That's a nice touch. He knew that if they were caught, we couldn't do much about it." The maester turns to Lord Mikel. "I recommend that we receive them with all the pomp that their rank deserves, and apologize that we were not better prepared for their arrival. We can tell them that no doubt the raven they sent announcing their arrival went astray. That was why we didn't send a response. Then we can say that next time they shouldn't stand on ceremony and should come straight to the castle where they are always welcome." "That's all for show, of course. In reality, they'll know that we know they were spying, they'll know that we have measures in place to catch spies, and they'll know that we'll be on the lookout for more spies, especially from their direction. That's the message that they'll send home to Lord Ashford." "I fear that's the only response we can make," Baelor adds. "Given the deniability of their visit - they can always claim they were coming for a visit - we can't take any drastic action. Lord Ashford was clever in sending his sons."does





#341:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesMuskratLocation: ChicagoPostPosted: Wed Jan 07, 2015 11:50 am
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Freila stands to one side, catching her breath and craning her neck for the appearance of Ser Shanar with Lord Ashford's sons. She hopes that she made it here in time for Maester Baelor and Lord Mikel to decide on an appropriate course of action.
#342:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Wed Jan 07, 2015 10:43 pm
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Ser Shanar eventually leads the 'captured' pair into Lord Mikel's solar. Beforehand, the Lord seemed quiet, as if brooding. Maester Baelor's words were wise, but would Lord Mikel heed them? Ser Gromwell entered without a care in the world expressed on his face. His younger brother and squire, Keln, did the same. "Lord Mikel," he greets the Lord of House Cloverwood. Lord Mikel in return nods, "Welcome to Northmarch, again. I apologize for being unaware of your coming. Maester Baelor, welcome our guests, I must speak to my lady-wife for arrangements for their stay to be prepared." It was slightly odd to leave his maester to speak to dignitaries, but perhaps it was for the best. Baelor could tell the man was fuming. Mikel stands, and without his cane as he has been apt to do lately, walks with a slight limp toward the exit.



#343:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Thu Jan 15, 2015 8:06 am
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"Welcome to Northmarch," Baelor says to the pair of nobles. "I'm sorry we don't have a better reception for you. But we didn't get word that you were coming to visit. Next time you come to Northmarch don't stand on ceremony. Please come right to the castle and we'll welcome you warmly."
#344:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Fri Jan 16, 2015 8:30 pm
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"Funny," the Ashford scion says. "I was here to inspect your market. If I wanted to be shown what you wanted to show, I would have come here first." Ser Gromwell points to Lord Mikel's table, looking as though he is inviting the maester to sit.

#345:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Tue Jan 20, 2015 7:37 am
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Baelor remains standing. "And what is your opinion of our marketplace?" he asks. "I don't doubt you dislike it."
#346:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Tue Jan 20, 2015 12:47 pm
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"I don't have an opinion," Ser Gromwell states. "I only follow the will of my Lord Father." The knight hands over a scroll to Baelor. "And in his good judgement he has raised your taxes. The details are in the letter. This will help you pay off your debt from House Cloverwood's illegal activities of withholding their tithes for so long." He pauses, then speaks up, "Also, what is that temple in town? Looks as though it is some sort of heresy. I will report this to my father as well. Likely he will see to it that the High Septon is alerted. If I were you I would see it torn down or repurposed."July 6th, 298 A.L. Northmarch




Last edited by TetNak on Thu Jan 22, 2015 11:42 pm; edited 1 time in total

#347:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Tue Jan 20, 2015 3:36 pm
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Baelor takes the scroll from Ser Gromwell with a nod. "House Cloverwood is eager to redress the errors of the past." His tone is neither obsequious nor condescending. "We shall make certain that the taxes are paid in full and on time." He wasn't too pleased about the increased taxes. But the knight was correct. Prior to him coming to Northmarch, House Cloverwood withheld tithes to its liege. That was a debt that was bound to come due, and one that must be paid without complaint. , the maester considers, "As for the Red Temple," he adds. "It is an offshoot of a temple that has been established in King's Landing." 'Under the eye of the High Septon,' goes unspoken. "We have it under observation, I assure you. And at the first indication from the Church of the Seven that it is considered heretical, I assure you we will do our duty." "Will you stay overnight, or at least for a meal?" Baelor asks out of a spirit of genuine hospitality. Politics might put them at odd for the moment. But these were still the children of this land's liege and deserved to be treated properly. As a maester of this castle, Baelor was charged with advising its master to the best of his abilities. But that didn't mean he was without any common courtesy.hadAnd who knowsPerhaps the added tax revenues will help remove the sting of the competing marketplace.



#348:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2015 12:33 pm
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"You seem a good sort," Ser Gromwell says, "A pity the Citadel chose to send you here." The knight stands, "Very well, we will stay the night. I assume Lord Mikel will join us to sup?"

[ OOC ]
[x]
#349:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2015 5:12 pm
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"We serve where we're needed," Baelor says with a shrug, echoing the official policy of the Citadel. "And it's a rare maester that gets assigned to a powerful castle just out of the Citadel." His youth, he knows, is part of the reason he was sent to Northmarch and not somewhere more important. He could say more, but it would be impolitic to do so. Ser Gromwell no doubt understands that. "I'll have our guest rooms prepared for you," the maester continues. "I expect that Lord Mikel will indeed join you for supper, unless his leg is giving him trouble. He's recovered remarkably from his brush with death a few months ago. But his health is not back to where it ought to be quite yet." "Regardless, there's much we need to speak about. We've received information about fighting to the south. I've sent a raven to Maester Kegor providing the bare details. But as you're here, I can augment that report with greater information." "Now please, make yourself comfortable. Someone will return shortly to escort you to your rooms so that you can refresh yourself before supper."







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#350:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2015 11:42 pm
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With a nod, Gromwell remains seated as does his younger brother and squire. Baelor sends Freila to see to the arrangements and before long she returns to take the pair to their rooms. Where Mikel has gone is not known. This is his solar and he is certainly not in the adjoining rooms as far as Baelor can tell. Either way, super is being prepared as requested by Baelor as Freila goes from place to place issuing his orders.
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#351:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2015 1:19 pm
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Baelor gives words to Lord Mikel's body servants to let him know when the lord reappears. Then he retreats to his own solar to review his notes and the information they've received about the fighting to the south - sparse thought it may be - so that he can properly brief Ser Gromwell over supper. He also takes the time to review the scroll that Ser Gromwell passed to him, ready to wince when he sees the scope of the tax increase.
#352:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2015 11:01 pm
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In summation, the note is not good. The taxes on Northmarch are increased in such a manner that will take a large chunk of profits from the market. Northmarch had the market, but Ashford had the leverage. Lord Mikel could petition Lord Mace Tyrell, but because of the past indiscretion, it might be moot and even damning. Lord Mikel could also petition Lord Adron, but that seemed unlikely to be anything but a waste of time. An hour later Lord Mikel walks into Baelor's solar. "Lady Gwyn has made me presentable I hope." Baelor had never seen Mikel cleanly shaven until this very moment. He had kept his beard fairly neatly trimmed, but never had he been smooth. "My face itches already." That Mikel hadn't despaired into a bottle was reassuring, but worse news was to come.



#353:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2015 5:21 am
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"You look the fine figure of a noble, my lord," Baelor says, rising. "Though I fear I have to ruin your good mood." He passes over the note. "House Cloverwood's past indiscretions have come back to haunt it. Lord Adron has significantly increased our taxes in order to 'make up for past underpayments.' I'm afraid we're in no position to argue with this declaration, If we do, Lord Adron will raise the specter of the previous withholding of taxes." He shakes his head. "Now I still have some tricks up my sleeve to keep this from being devastating. But it largely nullify the benefit we've been receiving from the marketplace."will
#354:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2015 5:25 pm
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"I expected nothing less." Lord Mikel does not seem surprised. His face is actually calm as are his words. "They will try to bleed us dry. Does it matter where the market is? Where the trade may take us? They have a right to tax us whatever rate they may wish." Mikel shrugs slightly, "What might we do? Petition Lord Mace? Petition to Lord Adron himself?"
#355:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2015 9:54 am
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"House Cloverwood owes House Ashford for monies and supplies that were withheld in the past," Baelor replies. "I should imagine that a certain amount of interest would also be reasonable. Until we pay that to House Ashford, we have very little justification to complain. My advice is to bide our time until the totality of the back payments have been made, with reasonable interest added to that amount. I have the records, and I know to the farthing what is owed." "Once that debt is paid," he continues, "we then petition Lord Adron to restore our taxes to their normal level. This will give him a chance to keep the matter between our two houses. If he declines, however, then we petition Lord Mace. Time will have passed so that House Cloverwood's actions will have been a long time ago. And the back debt will be paid off. I believe that after having waited so long, and collected the debt owed, it will be very hard for House Ashford to then bring up the issue of House Cloverwood withholding taxes. Time and repayment will have cleansed the misdeed." "In the meanwhile I still have some tricks up my sleeve that should make certain the House remains solvent. Cloverwood may lose the benefit of the marketplace for a time. But it will do so in exchange for removing the threat of punishment for its previous lack of payment of taxes."





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#356:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2015 10:04 am
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Mikel nods. "We shall be patient then. Let us get this over with." He pauses, "We have Wen in Highgarden, hopefully we continue to curry favor with Houes Tyrell. That will aid us locally as well."
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#357:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2015 10:42 am
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"As you say," Baelor replies. "Thankfully the discussion over supper should focus on the fighting to the south, not the marketplace or the increased taxes. Matters beyond the conflict between liege and vassal are at hand."
#358:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2015 10:03 pm
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"I will hold my tongue. There's no reason to get into an argument." He smiles, "They will think us cowed, perhaps. I am not. I assure you of that." Mikel nods walks along with Baelor to the grand hall. Ser Gromwell and Klen are already seated. They are talking to Timon which might be unsettling, but the second son has been more responsible these days. At least that seems the case. Gromwell looks up and gives a curt nod of his head toward the approaching lord and maester. Meanwhile, Lady Ashlee and Gwyn are also arriving from the other side of the room.



#359:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2015 8:54 am
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Baelor gives a bow to Lady Gwen and Lady Ashlee, and waits until they are seated before he takes his own seat. "I trust that you ladies had a pleasant day. As you see, we have guests for supper. These are Ser Gromwell and Klen, sons of Lord Adron Ashford." He indicates each in turn. "They've come to Northmarch for a brief visit." He then turns to the women. "You have met Lady Gwen, I believe. And this is Lady Ashlee, a guest at Cloverwood Castle."
#360:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2015 7:38 am
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"I am honored" Ashlee gives a curtsy.
#361:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Mon Feb 02, 2015 10:27 am
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Ser Gromwell and his brother and squire stand. Each bow slightly to both ladies. Gromwell practically sneers at Lady Gwyn and hardly looks at Lady Ashlee. Klen gives a big, goofy smile toward Lady Ashlee as he bows his head. They both seat themselves afterward. Gromwell takes a piece of bread and chews at it. Klen's eyes follow Ashlee around the table. His older brother doesn't seem to notice. "I guess this market was your design, maester?"

#362:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Tue Feb 03, 2015 2:07 pm
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"I was an apt student of the ways of commerce at the Citadel," Baelor admits. "And I realize that such matters are at the heart of any land's well being." He takes a sip of his wine. "A marketplace in Northmarch will improve the regional economy, creating more commerce overall. Yes, it helps House Cloverwood most of all. But over time, it should prove a benefit to both House Ashgrove and House Martel. A rising tide lifts all boats."
#363:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Wed Feb 04, 2015 10:27 am
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"Yes," Gromwell agrees, seemingly ignoring everyone else except Baelor. "I have also heard you have a guest here, a Dornish Lady. A Wyl, I think." Lady Tania was currently not at the table, but what he said was true enough. "Why?"
#364:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Wed Feb 04, 2015 12:36 pm
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"Why do we have her as a guest?" Baelor asks in a bewildered tone. "She wished to see some of the North and her father was kind enough to acquiesce to her desires. They do things rather differently in Dorne. He didn't want her going far away from home, so he asked Lord Mikel if she could stay here for a while. Lord Mikel graciously agreed."too
#365:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Wed Feb 04, 2015 2:26 pm
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Ashlee pays attention to the conversation at hand, Gromwell does not seem the subtle type, more of a blunt instrument, though they had their uses, too. Though perhaps not the tool a wise lord would use here? She gives Klen a return smile and a glance, just enough to nurture the illusion that she might be interested in him, but no more than so either.

#366:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Thu Feb 05, 2015 9:58 am
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"Is that so?" Ser Gromwell does not press the issue, but does not seem overly satisfied. Klen acts as though he is paying attention, but he isn't, that is clear. Timon is last to arrive and sits next to his father where Lyonel usually makes his place. "Where is Ser Lyonel?" Gromwell asks, frowning.

#367:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Thu Feb 05, 2015 10:08 am
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" is precisely what we need to report to you," Baelor replies. "He's with part of Cloverwood's household troops dealing with some sort of enemy force to the south - though whether it's bandits or worse is, as yet, unclear." That

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#368:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Sun Feb 08, 2015 9:30 am
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Gromwell leans back. "Really? What sort of force? I know you've been deployed to catch the Kingslayer, but no chance he comes this way."
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#369:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Wed Feb 11, 2015 9:51 am
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"We have received a report from the south that House Wyl has been attacked by House Lannister," Baelor reports. "We have received no further word as yet. But you can imagine what this will mean for Westeros if it is true. House Lannister may be mobilizing to defend the Kingslayer, despite what the king has declared. It means war among the houses, and possibly rebellion against the king."
#370:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Wed Feb 11, 2015 12:07 pm
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"By the Gods," Gromwell says, standing up immediately. "Send a raven to my father immediately maester." He waves his hand dismissively. "Klen, we're going." He grabs a loaf of bread from the table and looks intent on departing immediately. Klen, barely paying attention, reacts slowly as he's oogling Ashlee. The boy jumps up at Gromwell's side eventually, when he realizes his mistake. Lord Mikel says nothing, letting Baelor speak for House Cloverwood.



#371:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Wed Feb 11, 2015 1:29 pm
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"We dispatched a raven as soon as we heard the news," Baelor reports. "We'll be certain to send another if we receive any more details." He makes no efforts to keep Ser Gromwell at Northmarch. He understands that the man will want to consult with his father immediately.

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#372:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesZorbeltussPostPosted: Wed Feb 11, 2015 1:38 pm
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"Such hurry, my lords?" Ashlee breaks her silence for the first time. "Surely, a night on the road during times such as these cannot be considered entirely safe?"
#373:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Thu Feb 12, 2015 9:23 am
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Gromwell gives Ashlee an icy stare. He does not seem one to take advice from some woman he barely knows. "You have sent the raven then?" he asks the maester, "Good." The man rubs his chin, "We still need to leave. My father might have instructions for me." Klen stands by aimless waiting for his older brother and knight.
#374:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Thu Feb 12, 2015 9:51 am
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"I'll have the kitchen pack you some food for the road," Baelor says. "They can have it for you by the time your horses are prepared."
#375:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Thu Feb 12, 2015 8:20 pm
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The knight nods, but sits back down. There was no reason to stand about waiting. Certainly he expects their horses to be seen to. He looks around the room which has mostly fallen silent. Gromwell is a young man, but commands respect through the authority his father had given him.
#376:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTrogdorLocation: Northern VirginiaPostPosted: Tue Feb 17, 2015 9:40 am
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Baelor gives a nod to Lord Mikel, and heads to speak to the servants to get their guests' horses ready and to see that they're provided with some food and drink suitable for the road.
#377:  Author: , Re: Chapter 5a: A Game of ThronesTetNakLocation: NorthmarchPostPosted: Tue Feb 17, 2015 11:55 am
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Maester Baelor sees to the details. He has Freila aid him, mostly doing the message delivering here and there for him. Within an hour, the two horses are ready and foodstuffs such as bread and cheese are packed in their saddle bags. Gromwell had been conversing with Lord Mikel but it seems civil enough. When Baelor returns with news Gromwell stands and gives a curt nod. "Thank you, maester. We will be going." It was close to nighttime, but that wasn't likely to distract the knight from his duty.
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