Ayup ayup ayup.

>>25361633
Now way, it's not like I like this quest or anything.

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>>25361633
As this rule continues to enforce order and removes any discussion of tripcodes, I'll maintain it until the moment it stops being useful.
>Anyone who posts with a tripcode or a name will be ignored. If you wish for your contributions to the quest to be read, then you will post anonymously.

I'd also like to propose a new guideline. Not necessarily a rule but it'll make this quest more pleasant to read and to participate in.
>Please refrain from offering any praise or comments on how the quest is being run until after the quest has ended.
A large amount of people are tired of reading “Plasma, you are awesome.” I am one of them. The fact that you're participating is enough praise in my mind. Over-saturation of compliments is transforming this quest into a circlejerk and that's the last thing I want.

In addition, Page has started up his own Game of Thrones quest again. I suggest you read the adventures of Lord William Bordain for yourself. It predates the Quest of House Harrock and to be frank, if you like this quest, then you'll love Page's take on GoT. It takes place every Saturday, starting at roughly 9PM EST.
>http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=Iron%20and%20Hate%20Quest

Finally, the Quest of House Harrock will not be taking place this Friday. More early hours I have to suffer through but hopefully this won't be a permanent thing. Instead the next episode shall be taking place precisely a week from now, on Monday the 17th of June, 9PM GMT.

Brock is going to get mad pussy, man of the hour.

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>>25361661
>>25361649
>>25361645
Three people's a good enough start.

A collection of important characters for those who need to catch up. It has been updated fairly recently to include some of the characters you have met during the tournament.
>http://pastebin.com/wbb0aWtG

Woo!

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>tfw been waiting all week for this.
Th-th-thanks for coming, P-Plasma.

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Westpass. This is your land, your territory, your home. It's a harsh and unforgiving place, sparsely populated by evergreens and hardy shrubs. It's a steep valley filled with sudden falls, treacherous cliffs and unexpected gutters and furrows. Anyone who lives in this part of the Vale of Arryn quickly learns to walk softly and with great care.

Splitting Westpass in half is a great river just as unimaginatively named, the Westflow. Born from a great sheet of water that descends from the mountains, the small stream quickly transforms into a great raging current, with many muddy little rills and brooks contributing to its size. Despite the dangerous pace at which it flows, there are a few safe places where the river can be forded.

Clinging to the mountains on either side of the Westflow, the road for which the region is named winds and bends, a well-worn path of gravel and dirt that it is your duty to protect and maintain. One of the few routes in and out of the Vale, many merchants use the Westpass for their trade routes for a certain fee. To the North, the road leads to Strongsong. To the East, the road leads to Crown Crag.

Finally, there are the great structures of Westpass. The hub of civilisation is High Harrock, a grim and foreboding structure that brings comfort to the inhabitants of the region as the sole provider of protection, boasting an iron mine and great solid stone walls. Then there are the two towers that guard it; Skycliff built amongst the peaks and Wetrock built upon a solid stone foundation beside the Westflow.

But what about the people who live here? There are a few thousand smallfolk scattered throughout the land, in huts and hovels that dot the rocky landscape. It's a hard life but honest life, where they harvest and farm what they can, whenever they can. Some keep herds of hardy mountain goats for their meat and milk, while others farm lettuces, berries and edible ferns.

This is your land and these are your people. Treat them well.

>>25361660
>A large amount of people are tired of reading “Plasma, you are awesome.” I am one of them.

I thought I was alone in this. Grate idea.

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>>25361713
>>25361694
>>25361660
Never have you been so close to the heart of the celebrations and the events of the tournament. It's quite nerve-wracking for you, let alone for your son who is receiving most of the attention. From Loras Egen to Jon Lynderly, many good lords come to congratulate him and drink with the star of the melee, who only offers sheepish grins and uncertain mumbles in return. Even Benedar comes to offer his congratulations although his smile is a tight-lipped one and his voice trembles as he speaks. Although the fiery-haired glutton can't hide his hate, at least he is courteous enough towards the victor.

Although the tournament is officially over, the feasting shall last a few days longer and the guests shall be allowed to trickle out of Grimarbour at their own leisurely pace. It is up to you how much longer you wish to stay. As you enjoy the feast at Ser Brock's side, a servant carrying the heraldry of House Royce on his table arrives at your side to pass on a request in a hushed tone.

“My lord, Lord Yohn Royce of Runestone wishes to speak with you within half an hour, regarding private matters. He shall see you aboard his galley by the docks – please ensure that Lord Loras Egen of Crown Crag is accompanying you when you leave.”

That gives you just enough time to speak with one person of your choice before you leave the feast for the night to meet with Bronze Yohn. Is there anyone in particular you would like to speak to?
>A member of your family (Ser Brock, Lady Deyya, Lady Katrin)
>A lord of another house (Lord Benedar Belmore, Lord Palfrey Badics, Lord Jon Lynderly, Lord Loras Egen, Lord Royce Coldwater, Lord Alesandor Saul, Lord Lyonel Corbray)
>Other miscellanious individuals (Ser Lyn Corbray, Ser Banton, Squire Mabbin, anyone you can think of not already listed)
>Forget everything else and visit Bronze Yohn.

>>25361727
>In addition, here is a list of those who have died in the melee, either instantly or due to mortal injury. A few men have muttered prayers for the fallen – namely Royce Coldwater – but most of them are more interested in the victors than those who have suffered the ultimate failure.

>Pommit, Endorsed by Ser Boyn, Sworn to House Coldwater - slain by Pafio of Braavos, Endorsed by Lord Palfrey of House Badics.
>Laamir of Qohor, Endorsed by Lord Palfrey of House Badics - slain by Ser Lyn of House Corbray.
>Martyn, Squire to Ser Lalyn, Sworn to House Hardyng - slain by Laamir of Qohor, Endorsed by Lord Palfrey of House Badics.
>Lady Kaya, Sworn to House Hardyng - slain by Ser Andar of House Royce.
>Ser Symond, Sworn to House Sunderland - slain by Ser Lyn of House Corbray.
>Bredder, Squire to Ser Osney, Sworn to House Pryor - slain by Lady Delayis, Sworn to House Belmore.
>Bosrick, Endorsed by Ser Andar of House Royce - slain by Lord Palfrey of House Badics.

>>25361704
Same here anon, been looking forward to this.

>>25361727
We wanted to talk to Mabbin, to see if we could get the squire to join us. I imagine we also want to talk to Ser Brock and our wife, though, and we might want to talk to another lord, if we still plan to leave soon, due to the events in our lands.

>>25361727
Our son, obviously.

HUZZAH I AM HERE
Question: we rolled poorly for the melee, but by all rights Brock did great. So- what is it that went wrong?

>>25361789
Perhaps the roll wasn't meant for the melee at all?

>>25361727
Our son.

We are so proud. So very proud. Emotion is not our strong point however.

"I have never been so happy to be your father as on this day, Ser Brock."

>>25361789
The roll was for the diplomacy with Lord Lynderly, rather than the melee.

>>25361727
Our son
>>25361739
How could that many people die? Didn't they use blunted weapons?
>>25361789
I believe that roll was for a bet on who would take down the most people.

>>25361824
Even with blunted weapons, you can still stab someone or beat their head in with a mace.

>>25361824
Spears and swords can still stab, which Lyn used to... effect.

>>25361824
That's the melee and the joust combined.

>>25361838
No it isn't, it's just the melee.

>>25361808
I second this. We shouldn't try and be something we're not. Tell him we're proud, he singlehandedly made going to Belmore's tournament worthwhile.

>>25361808
"Ser Brock, I do not think I have ever been so proud, so happy, as I am at this moment. After the sad events with Ser Morys, you have single handedly redeemed this tourney for your House. You have made a friend in Yohn Royce, Castellan of the Vale, and brought yourself fame and glory. I know that I have not really said this before, but I am proud to call you son, and can only hope I bring such favour and glory to House Harrock as you did today."

>>25361808
>>25361898
Sounds good. Let's go with these.

Did an archive binge, and I'm ready to kick some ass in the name of House Harrock!

Guys...I know you're going to hate me for this but I think we should apologize to Belmore. I think he's been pushed from rival to archenemy and the last thing we need is someone else out to get us now that we don't know if we can trust Egen.

I think we should talk to him, when we can, in private, and apologize for what we said at the melee.

"I don't like you Belmore, and I know you don't like me. I think you're a pompous fat fool of a man, and you no doubt have choice words of your own to describe me. But listen to me when I say this- I did not lame your son. No man should have to watch his own son crippled...something I...appreciate now after what happened with Yohn at the melee. I'm sorry for what happened..but you know as well as I that it was not my fault or Lord Royces for what happened. The tourney is a very dangerous place- my own sworn sword can atest to this, if he wasn't currently in a poppy induced coma. Your son faced someone who had height, weight, skill, and experience on him. Did you really expect him to unhorse yohn?
..At any rate I stray. I don't want to be your enemy. The vale has enough problems between the mountain clans- is it right for us to force the people who depend on us to suffer one more over a stupid rivalry?"

>>25361898

"My son. My beautiful wife. My daughter...for the first time it feels like I am truly alive."

>>25361950
That'd make us look weak, and I don't think that it'd do any good whatsoever anyway.

>>25361950
Fuck that, let's throw wine in his face and congratulate Brock in a loud and obnoxious manner for all to hear instead.

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>>25361950
>now that we don't know if we can trust Egen.
>Implying Egen's opinion matter
Egen is our bitch and Belmore can eat a lordly bag of dicks.
I was rereading the threads a few days ago. Not only do we police his lands, but our production of iron and purchasing of his foods means we can cripple his economy if we want to.

>>25361774
>>25361784
>>25361898
>>25361808
>>25361824
Pulling away your son from the swarms of congratulatory lords for a little while, you have a moment of peace with your son. He certainly doesn't look like a knight, with half of his face smothered in black and purple bruises but he's giddy with excitement and joy after everything he has done. Unable to wipe that stupid grin off his face, it almost seems like he's about to lean in and wrap his arms about you in a great blubbery bear hug - thankfully, he restrains himself before he does so. Your words of pride are enough to make the boy beam brightly with glee. He is still a boy after all, no matter the title that Bronze Yohn may have bestowed on him.

"Thank you. I mean, thank you for everything. Wouldn't have come here without you, wouldn't be anything without you, I mean. All of my life, I've been... I've been less than this. I'll be like that again. I'm a knight and your heir and I swear I'll act like both, I promise. I'll marry the Egen girl, I'll learn how to use a sword, whatever you want. I'm your son and it's about time I acted like it. I'm sorry for ever bein' less than that."

Almost tearing up, the lad can't resist it any more and lurches forward to engulf you in a warm embrace, practically pinning you against his bulky figure. It is a somewhat awkward experience, especially in the sight of so many renowned and noble men.

>>25361981
>>25361988
GUYS, I know that Belmore is an ass but I'm just putting it out there that we could at least try to patch things up. His son was crippled and then we made a joke about it. As much as we don't like him we have to admit that we pushed him too far, and what's more did so in a manner not fitting a Lord.

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>>25362006
Is this what it's like to be a father?

>>25362000
he's been very wary of us ever since the fight with the mountain clans and it's starting to look like he may be the one who sent the archers, or at the very least is harboring them

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>>25362006
Hug him back, he has earned it. He is truly our son.

>>25362006
Mmmhmmm, careful lad, with your performance in the melee, Women might just seek you out themselves, and not just the Egen girl at that. Take care not to sow some bastards will you?

>>25362006
Pat him awkwardly.

"There...uh, there Ser Brock."

>>25362022
I have to agree in some part. We don't want to make peace with him, he's killed our men in a very dirty and backhanded way, and that demands vengeance. But still, he's a grieving father, and no injure is so great that we can't offer two words of condolences. Grieving men do stupid things, and last of all I want to see Brock hurt now, right after he was knighted.
Again, not saying we should make amends, but a simple "I am sorry for your loss, Belmore. I did not intend for your son to become injured during the jousting."

>>25362073
>This is actually an important point.
>Last week, there was a lot of discussion on the topic of sending Brock to enjoy a night at a brothel. There was quite a bit of outcry against it but quite a bit of support for it.

>Do you wish to allow Brock to let loose for a night in Grimarbour or do you want him to remain pure?

>>25362006
"And I will begin to trust you more without me telling you what to do. You are a man now, son, and have earned the right to talk to me as an equal, to give me any advice you think best. I want you to take a greater roll in the running of our House, for that is the way that you will learn to take on my responsibilities when I pass on to the Seven. You are not a child anymore, Brock, and must be allowed to make your own decisions, otherwise what does the title given to you by Lord Royce mean?"

>>25362130
No brothels. I doubt he'd feel comfortable with it himself. And a bastard is the very very very last thing we need right now.

>>25362130
Under supervision in a way.
We know of a Brothel where the madam was willing to work with us. Talk with her about arranging the boy some 'safe' fun. A talented girl or two to help bring the knight to be aware of his lance and moon tea afterwards. We can enjoy some of our own tea with the madam while we wait, and discuss some helpful rumors with her, paying her and her girls for their time.

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>>25362130
He needs to give someone the dick.

>>25362130
...Maybe consult with our wife on the matter?

She'd know more about what a prospective wife would look for.

>>25362118
Exactly. We don't want to be friends with him but we do have standards and protocol to adhere as a lord

>>25362130
We should leave the decision up to him - I imagine it'd be awkward as fuck telling him to go whoring, and doesn't feel in character, so we should tell him that, should he want to celebrate, we can find him a good bed for the night.

>>25362175
Safe fun. That I can agree to. But as
>>25362184
says, defer to the wifey in these matters.

>>25362118
It wasn't our fault, Bronze Yohn said he already knew about the setup, our words didn't change shit.
This is the only thing Belmore should be aware of: it's only his fault. If he didn't cheat his way to people who actually knew how to joust the boy could be alive, there's nothing worse than amateur riding against a pro.
If he feels better by accusing ourselves, it's his problem, but I don't feel even slightly guilty.

>>25362205
This, plus >>25362201

>>25362006
Easy, ser. I already fell off a horse once this tourney. We'll have to find you some savages to hug, Westpass'll be safe in no time.

You've earned your place as my heir. Until the last ridge, son.

>>25362130
I don't think so. At best it's an uncomfortable and awkward situation for all, at worse it nets us a bastard to make trouble down the line (Like Ulfric) and ruins his relationship with Egen's daughter

...besides, who would honestly want to have sex with someone who has paid to do so by YOUR DAD

It's like...two degrees of seperation man

>>25362209
Neither do I. If he didn't want his boy hurt, he shouldn't have been a cheating fuck.

It'll teach him not to try that shit with us in future.

>>25362221
Nice, well said.

>>25362201
We do not go whoring ourselves, and we are by all acounts autismal as fuck. We don't talk about this kind of shit. We could hint at it, but I think Brock would rather bang the Egen chick.

>>25362230
Actually yeah that's a really good point.

Let's... not do that.

>>25362209
Yah but Belmore is blaming us for what happened after that taunt, probably so that way he doesn't feel guilty.

>>25362230
>>25362221
Seconding these.

>>25362251
Belmore already hates our guts, because he's an ass and ourh ouses have been rivals for centuries. Us pussyfooting around won't change that.

>>25362209
They didn't, and he himself probably knows this, but he wants to desperately blame us and take revenge on something. As much as I want him to bite the dust, not offering him a word or two in condolence might not only rub him even more the wrong way, it might also seem like we're just being plain dickish, and acting against decorum.

>>25362266
Exactly.

>>25362236
However, that relies on Egen allowing them to marry - he's still resisting that for all he's worth.

>>25362266
There's a difference between being rivals, and him saying he wants our son crippled or dead. He's a grieving dad, we're a dad too, we should at least know what grief can do to a man.

>>25362299
Maybe say a few words before we leave then. It might take the edge of the blow.

>>25362319
Hmh, that should do.

>>25362130
I'm against this for reasons already stated.
No need for bastards

>>25362326
Drop the name. Plasma will ignore you otherwise.

>>25362272
>>25362266
Yeah but he's a noble all the same, it's not like we're dealing with some jumped up mountain savage. If you're a noble and you hate another noble you still extend common courtesy to him, with the expectation that it will be returned and that things like attempts on close friends and family will not be undertaken by either party

>>25362319
If we say something nice or conciliatory, he'll only take it as a slight or take it for dark sarcasm at this point.

>>25362348
If you say nothing it is DEFINITELY a slight.

I'd much rather say something and have a fifty/fifty shot of avoiding brock being crippled at some point then not doing anything and ensuring it

>>25362326
Ah, forgot to take off the name.
Still I don't like the idea of bastards

>>25362379
It's full of contraceptive methods in the setting, man

>>25362379
Second. I'm calling on not taking Brock out, but he spends his time how he wants to spend it. Nobody really needs to have their dad standing over them during their first time anyway....judging you

>>25362379
Have you even read the book? Lrn2 Moon Tea

>>25362376
Fine, fine. Offer some token apology.

>>25362348
We don't say something nice, we respectfully say we're sorry for his loss. Like
>>25362376
said, saying nothing could be interpreted even more badly. A man in grief can do stupid, stupid things, and he might not decide to hold himself to decorum if he perceives us as the reason why his son's now a cripple.

>>25362221
>>25362076
With an uncertain laugh, Brock tugs himself off of you and pats you down briefly, before doing the same with himself.
"Right, right. Sorry. Still, uh, thank you. I mean that, thank you."
>>25362236
>>25362230
>>25362205
>>25362201
>>25362184
>>25362181
>>25362175
>>25362159
>>25362236
You take the opportunity to question your family about the prospect of a good time for your son in one of the island town's whorehouses. First Brock and then Deyya.

Brock's reaction is one of a scarlet blush and much stammering and awkward reaction. He has never been with a woman, you know that much. If he did, the rumours would have certain reached you as the lad had never left Westpass until your first visit to Crown Crag. He's extremely awkward and uncertain about the suggestion, as you'd likely expect from someone of his age and his experience.
"I uh... I... I dunno. What do women like? I mean, I want a pure wife, still with their... you know. Not touched by other men. I don't want that. Do uh, do women think like that? Or would they rather uh... um.... Seven Hells..."
After much muttering from the boy and with no conclusion from the poor flustered lad, you leave him to briefly discuss the possibility with your good wife Deyya. Her reaction is one of blushing as well, although not quite to the degree of Brock and her expression is one of shock.
"I'm not sure whether this is such a good idea, Artys... What good would this do him? At best he might understand what to do when he beds his wife, whether it is Lorenna or not but at worst, he might get a taste for brothels and such.... Do you really want your son to be that? There's no need to set him on a dark path like that, we both know he has an insatiable appetite, the last thing you want to do is drive that to sex. The Seven know how many problems that would give us..."

>Your final choice?

>>25362412
>>25362379
It's unanimous. You guys are faggots.

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>>25362450
Allright it's settled then

>>25362450
Let's go with what the wife said - we've got her on our side currently, we don't want to piss her off.

We can always send him to one of the whores in our inn back at High Harrock, after all.

>>25362450
Yeah fair enough.

>>25362450
>If you're uncertain, then the boy shan't go to brothels.

>>25362450
Goddamnit you fags, I told you this would happen, but you didn't listen. Goddamnit. We tell brock we were just fucking around. He ain't fucking no ho, he needs a proper wife.

>>25362450
>"I'm not sure whether this is such a good idea, Artys... What good would this do him? At best he might understand what to do when he beds his wife, whether it is Lorenna or not but at worst, he might get a taste for brothels and such.... Do you really want your son to be that? There's no need to set him on a dark path like that, we both know he has an insatiable appetite, the last thing you want to do is drive that to sex. The Seven know how many problems that would give us..."
"He needs a release, love. He's been knighted, turned into a man. It seems fitting that he should do what men do: fuck. How about I meet you in the middle: I will take him to a brothel and if he doesn't want to do anything, we'll come back. I won't force him. But if he does, well. . ."

>>25362450
No, no brothels, we should in fact warn Brock about the issue our family has had with bastards in the past.

>>25362450
For now lets not lead our son down that road and go meett Bronze Yohn withLord Egen

>>25362541
>B-but muh bastards
Whores drink Moon Tea.

>>25362450
Deyya's right.

>>25362544
Do you think it'd be suitable for us to take Brock with us to the meeting?

>>25362523
>I will take him to a brothel and if he doesn't want to do anything, we'll come back
Nah. He's a man now, if he wants something he will just go and take it, he doesn't need hand holding, especially in this situation

>>25362549
Oh so Ulfric just popped out of the mountain crags?

>>25362468
Our family has a HORRIBLE history with bastards. Lets avoid it at all costs. We're still recovering from the last one!

>>25362590
Servants at High Harrock
Common women
Both of those are just as likely as a whore giving birth to him.

>>25362544
>>25362541
>>25362523
>>25362518
>>25362516
>>25362513
>>25362502
>>25362491
>No brothels.

Deciding against it, you console Brock that it was simply a jest but that only leaves the boy in a more confused state. Patting him on the back, you assure the lad that you meant nothing by it and you leave him to the congratulations and the celebrations of the other lords and knights, no matter how sincere and farcical they may be. Meanwhile, your wife replaces her expression of shock with a pleasant smile and ventures over to speak with Lord Lyonel Corbray, little Katrin in tow.

It's about time that you left to speak with Bronze Yohn. You spot Lord Egen looking towards you questioningly from where he stands, breaking out of his typically jovial and sycophantic character as he prepares to join you for the journey to Lord Yohn Royce's galley. Alternatively, you could speak with someone else - such as Benedar Belmore - at the feast and risk being late. The choice is yours.

>>25362620
Keep the small apology for later, we've got Yohn to deal with now.

>>25362620
Dude's on his boat waiting to cast off. We're keeping him from getting home. Bad idea to keep him waiting.

>>25362620
that jerk can wait, now it's time for business

>>25362620
Can we talk to Belmore after our visit with Yohn?

>>25362620
Fuck being late. Bronze Yohn probably wants to talk about the foreign whore we allowed in our house. We're on his good side for now, let's not keep it up.

>>25362620
Let's talk to Yohn.
After I think it would be best to return home as soon as possible given the shit that happened while we were away

>>25362620
Being late is for suckers.

>>25362670
Seconding this.

We make a token apology to Belmore, then head off. Hopefully our uncle will be atleast reasonably impressed with Brock when we get home.

>>25362688
Well, I say we get to Yohn first of all, being late really wouldn't help us right now.

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>>25362620
Don't be late.
Dis iz goon b gud.

>>25362708
Yes, that's what I meant, sorry.>>25362708

>>25362670
Well first we need to say something to Belmore, and then check in with ser Moray to make sure he's ok to be moved, and our prospective sworn sword whatisface, so that way he knows where he's going. And...maybe a lttle snooping through our new spymaster

We don't want to be late - we want to keep on Royce's good side.

Now we'll see if Egen is moving against us or not.

>>25362642
>>25362645
>>25362646
>>25362648
>>25362649
Resolving to speak with Lord Benedar Belmore at a later point, you turn to leave with Lord Loras Egen and step out of the market square where the feast is being held and into the winding alleys and streets of Grimarbour.

It's a long journey past the various stalls and bustling crowds as sailors and whores and merchants and guards either retire for the night or venture out to begin their day's work. For the few minutes of the adventure through the swarming roads your faux-Braavosi companion is silent but eventually, Lord Egen makes the decision to speak. You can tell just by listening to the lord's words that he is choosing them very carefully, especially after what he has previously said throughout the tournament.

"Perhaps I was a little hasty in denying your son my daughter's hand so swiftly, Lord Artys - I do hope that you still consider a marriage between my Lorenna and Ser Brock a possibility?"

>>25362620
Try to make our way to Belmore and say we want to talk to him later and then head off with Egen.

"Did you find out anything about this woman? Or why Royce is so interested?"

>>25362760
Look who comes fucking crawling back to us now.

Fucking bitch.

>>25362760
"...I think so yes. Brock is-amiable with her. What made you change your mind?"

>>25362760
This conversation will have to wait, Egen. Right now I'd like to concentrate on the task at hand

>>25362760
>"Perhaps I was a little hasty in denying your son my daughter's hand so swiftly, Lord Artys - I do hope that you still consider a marriage between my Lorenna and Ser Brock a possibility?"
He was dazzled by Brock's knighthood, I guess. We should answer reserved, like this:
"I have thought about the concept a lot and would happily accept your daughter into my family if you allow it. Brock and Lorenna are smitten in their own . . . odd way. I think they'd be good for each other."

>>25362760
Blink in surprise.
>Lord Egen, why the change of heart? Do not misunderstand me, I am joyful you consider giving your daughter's hand to my Brock again, but last we spoke, you seemed rather...adamant on them not marrying, or only with a sum of money to be paid from my side--something that I had grown fairly receptive to, need be said.

>>25362760
"Possibly, yes, given that Brock and Lorenna seem to have become fast companions. Still, I shall need to discuss things with Ser Brock, and I think this discussion with Lord Royce merits our full attention, wouldn't you say?"

>>25362832
this.

>>25362832
>>25362835
These. We still like the idea, and want to make him feel alright about changing his mind, but we should discuss it more in-depth after our meeting with Bronze Yohn, and then we can discuss it with Brock there too.

>Sorry for any delay; back from coffee break.

>>25362760
>>25362760
Perhaps you were, my friend. Though I doubt your fair daughter will be the only contender come the following weeks. Do not worry too much, though, I believe the young ser has taken a liking to your daughter.

>>25362890
>>25362832
Too soft. First he was asking for a dowrey, and now that Brock is the man of the hour, he's suddenly good enough? Fuck that noise. I wouldn't be surprised if our good wife was offered more hands in marriage after this.

>>25362905
I like this - makes it sound like not a 100% sure thing, but makes it sound safe enough that Egen will hold out to see it happen, rather than just going "well fuck you then".

>>25362947
Hmh. Also, she's a greenseer. More black magic please.

>>25362943
That's why I think >>25362905 works best - means Egen will have to wait and see, but makes it seem likely enough that he shouldn't fuck around with us now, given that he doesn't want to ruin the chance of his daughter marrying the most eligible bachelor in the Mountains of the Moon.

>>25362832
>>25362835
>>25362810
>>25362834
>>25362905
He clears his throat in response, thinking carefully as you step through the streets. The guards accompanying you clear the way, parting the crowds and allowing you to walk unhindered by the writhing throngs of smallfolk.

"I shall admit, I knew little of your son's capabilities and I was worried that he would be a poor match for my daughter; a man of little talent. My suspicions were crushed today, Lord Artys. I have no doubt that your son is a worthy man of great prowess and now of great renown; few men can stand up to Lord Yohn as Ser Brock did. You will find there are few women of suitable status and suitable age for your son is the Vale and I doubt you shall find a better match than my Lorenna. I don't ask for any bride price. There is no need for any gold to exchange hands. All I suggest is that our children marry one another; Crown Crag even has a sept for the ceremony to be performed within. Don't you find this to be an agreeable solution? A way of solidifying our alliance through blood."

The nervous, colourfully-dressed lord finally comes to a stop before the great galley with orange and tan sales, with many runes of the First Men painted into its hull. It's quite a sight and within waits the one and only Bronze Yohn, once you respond to Lord Egen and you are willing to confront the Castellan of the Vale.

>>25363045
>No dowery
>He'll marry us in his own sept
This is too good to be true. Or he really is desperate as fuck.

>>25363045
Sigh, deeply. "Desperation is unbecoming of you, Lord Egen. I'll agree to the marriage but I must insist on a bride price. It's only proper."

>>25363045
Hah, if that's to be the case, let me at least pay for the wedding ceremony! Now, we'll discuss more later, wouldn't want to keep Bronze Yohn waiting.

>>25363076

Egen has shown himself to be a spineless man time and time again. Tell we will be sure to discuss it later.

>>25363086
He'll take that as an insult, I'd think. Last thing you want to tell a desperate man is that he's desperate. And if he has an ulterior motive, telling him he's desperate will only piss him off.
>>25363098
But shhh, don't tell him that.

>>25363076
Hang on a second, this is Westeros.

Typically, it's the bride's family that pays the dowry to the groom's family. This bride price stuff is Dornish shit.

And we're just going to take his daughter for nothing when we're in a position to extort the shit out of this guy?

>>25363111
Not like the dowry is any large amount. And a 'marriage without money' is just too endearing to pass up.

>>25363045
"I must say, it would help both our houses. Still, let us talk more of this once our meeting with Lord Royce is concluded, when we have more time to discuss the particulars - the event, bride price, that sort of thing."

>>25363131
Yes, great. Also we really can't stall any longer, I don't think Yohn is anywhere near patient.

>>25363111
Now that's a good point, we have something to pull some leverage on the faggot since Brock has now renown which he didn't have.

>>25363131
>>25363149
Seconded.

>>25363086
No. No. No. No.

No.

We will simply let him stew for a while longer.

"Few men saw ser Brock for what he is, my friend. All men know now, though. And so do their daughters. I will discuss the matter with my son and wife first thing in the morrow as I feel the members of my house have some say int his matter, but I fear we must head home in due haste.

Come, let us not keep Bronze Yohn waiting."

>>25363161
Ok, but if we don't ask for anything and we simply marry her to Brock, Egen will be so far up our ass, he'll practically be our bannerman.

We could give him a second chance, despite him being a fair weather friend.

>>25363164
This. If we agree to the marriage now then Egen will know we won't throw him under the bus with Yohn.

>>25363131
This, we can finish dealing with this later.

>>25363191
>>25363164
Yes, he knows he's fucked up with us. Him brushing off our marriage offer was pretty much an insult to our house.

>>25363184
Now Egen is kind of weak after all he asked our military help, I don't mean him ill-will but I think we can fairly say he is practically our bannerman even without Brock being married.

>>25363191
Or we can just...not throw him under the bus with Yohn, and discuss these matters later. Let's ask the wifey, for good measure. She's the one with the marriage expertise.

>>25363164
That sounds good.

>>25363211
Not quite yet. He was courting Belmore before Brock showed off his balls of steel. Marrying him into our house will pretty much drive him into our arms competely.

>>25363045

Speaking about confronting Bronze Yohn, I have being thinking about the events with the Quorie woman and slavery doesn't quite fits the bill. the expensive carts and gifts, the black silk covering them with the goat, and the banners. If she was an slaver it could call to much attention to herself. The more I think about it it seem to me that it was a religious matter.

>>25363211
he's not our bannerman in the slightest. He just wants this marriage so we will protect him from Yohn. We give him military aid but if we were to declare war on the Belmores he wouldn't raise his levies for us

>>25363226
Well still we're just discussing something that shouldn't be discussed, at least not now, we still need to ask our waifu and discuss it in-character with her.

>>25363252
His levies got buttraped in that fight against the barbarii, that's why he asks our military aid.

>>25363252
This man makes sense.
>>25363258
Yus, defer to the wifey. Also inquire about that green sash Brock wore.

>>25363235
Yeah on the whole it seems far too brazen a move.

You'd think a slaver would be less brazen.

But then again, I have no idea what else she could have been carrying.

Wonder if Bronze Yohn has heard anything from other houses whose lands that woman would have had to pass through.

>>25363131
>>25363184
These. We can use it to benefit us a lot, but it should be discussed with Brock and our wife after our meeting with Royce.

>>25363286
Am I the only one that thinks Egen is so weak-minded that would make him the most unrelliable ally in this setting? I mean if he gets scared he probably would backstab without second thoughts, he's that much of a pussy (or at least that's how I feel about him)

>>25363076
>>25363086
>>25363090
>>25363108
>>25363098
>>25363128
>>25363131
>>25363164
The colourful lord simply nods along with a smile on his face. He certainly does reek of desperation and false courtesy, a worm of a man if you have ever seen one. Simply offering that you'll think on it and that Lord Yohn Royce is far too important to keep waiting, you step on to the galley and descend into its depths to where your good host shall likely be waiting to listen to you.

The room is a dim one with little light indeed. To the side is a tall, fatherly looking man with grey hair and startling blue eyes, wearing a robe with many pockets and a chain of many links. Beside him is a table littered with medical instruments and implements, bandages and knives, concoctions and other things both foul and esoteric. Another table is arranged in the middle of the room with three chairs arranged about it, one of them already occupied. Sitting within it is Bronze Yohn himself, the gnarled oak of a man wearing comfortable clothes of drab greys and browns, thick and padded. It's a rare sight to see a man such as he outside of his armour but even now, he's imposing to look at. Gesturing to the other chairs, the Castellan speaks.

"Seat yourselves, Artys, Loras. We've much to discuss."

>Roll 3d6. Accepting third roll.

>>25363275

Yeah, and even but think about ti why risk coming to Westeros to take slaves, expend so fucking much, so openly with banners of your city to take slaves. Doesn't seen economically feasible went buying or taken slaves is so easy on the other site of the sea.

I know this is jumping to conclusion but I think it was to do with the religion of the black goat that they have in her home city.

>>25363312
However, if that is the case, we have casus belli to attack him and basically take his lands, and our son is in a position to take them as his own, if we got rid of his son too.

>>25363312
He's not weak minded, at all. He's a weak lord, militarily and economically speaking, and we have his lands by the balls. His only alternative is Belmore, who is a giant cockgobler. And we're ambitious and dangerous as fuck. He knows we'll try to force him to become our bannerman. he's doing what any sane lord should be doing, playing the game of politics. Writing him off as a coward is idiocy.

>>25363312
If we do get the marriage I still wouldn't trust him.
It's still beneficial for us though because Brock's child has a chance to inherit Egen's lands

Rolled 3, 5, 1 = 9

>>25363349
Diplomacy ACTIVATE.

Rolled 4, 5, 6 = 15

>>25363349

Rolled 2, 3, 1 = 6

>>25363349
ACTIVATE AGAIN!

Rolled 6, 2, 1 = 9

>>25363349

>>25363387
Oh shit nigger, fucking /tg/ dice.

Rolled 6, 1, 2 = 9

>>25363349
"That we do, Lord Royce. You look well, considering the battle. I only wish my son healed as fast as you. I thank you for the honour you did him, by the way, I have never seen him more set in his resolve to do good on his oaths."

Rolled 6, 2, 5 = 13

>>25363387
I suppose...it could...have...been...worse?

File: 1370901715231.jpg-(24 KB, 267x269, Aghast.jpg)

24 KB JPG

>>25363387
Oh fuck nigga, what have you done?

Why couldn't we have >>25363385?

>>25363401
>>25363394
>>25363369
We really like that 9 :/

>>25363385
>>25363387

God damn it, by 3 seconds and we could have cruse out of this with style.

Rolled 1, 3, 3 = 7

>>25363349


Just got here, rollin!

>>25363387
Welp, time to bullshit our way out of angry Yohn's wrath. And throw Egen under a bus.

>>25363312
I really think he just knows he's in a weak spot and is basically flailing for someone to come to his aid but doesn't want to risk becoming to indebted to them

And it was all going so well...

BTW, we have to talk to him about getting Ser Lyn out of our service his job done we are to find a different kind of teacher for Brock.

>>25363478
Indeed. I think we should have our Maester teach Brock the basics of management, for he will need to be able to do this, once he inherits our lands.

>>25363478
Brock is a knight now. It would look ridiculous if were still under the tutelage of another one

>>25363478
Just had a thought - did Brock win any money (other than our bets) from coming third in the melee?

Rolled 6, 5, 1 = 12

>>25363503


Something I suggested about six thread ago and got shot down on. The boy could use some of book learnin', he's quite a beast in combat already.

>>25363514

If that other is Yohn himself I think is not so ridiculous.

>>25363527
Pretty sure Yohn has to buy him some armour and a horse

>>25363530
But it fits now, since he is now a knight.

Rolled 4, 2, 5 = 11

>>25363538
Brock in a set of bronze rune armour. Nnnnngg.

>>25363535
Yes it will. A fully fledged knight shouldn't squire for anyone. We should just find a decent master of arms and have Brock learn from regular spars with him.

>>25363387
>>25363388
>>25363385
>>25363369
Loras Egen bows deeply, almost too deeply. He truly is a desperate man, a sycophant, a lapdog. Either he doesn't care about how embarrassing he seems in front of other lords or he is entirely unaware of how humiliating his actions are.
"Of course, Lord Royce. Might I congratulate you on your performance during the tournament? Truly, only two men could defeat a warrior of your prowess - in single combat I doubt any other than King Robert himself could best you."
>>25363401
Offering a dismissive wave to you both, the old and grizzled warrior hardly seems as jovial and gregarious as he did during the feast. He is weary and tired and his face is certainly bruised and battered from the beating that your son gave it. Otherwise, he seems quite well and he explains it quite nonchalantly, his deep voice lacking the humour and the pleasant tone that is usually possesses.
"I admit that I did not fight fairly; I have not throughout this entire tournament. The ancestral armour of House Royce renders its wearer immune to harm, an advantage that won me the joust and would have won me the tournament if your son did not remove my helmet. I am lucky that Ser Lyn did not drive his sword through my neck, given his reputation for bloodlust. Your boy Brock put my life at risk but he showed initiative that few men provide. That has earned him my respect and a knighthood to boot. But enough of such pleasantries. I brought you here to tell me of this Maahira of Qohor that caused so much trouble in your region of the Vale. Artys, I'd like you to begin.

"Tell me about the foreign woman. Each and every detail, with no hidden truths."

>>25363550

Dude, he is still young and he could serve as a ward for Yohn and get the best martial training in the vale if not the seven kingdoms. No one said anything about being a squire and he still needs more training.

>>25363550
He can practise with our other knights, who I hope will be as glad as us to learn of his victory.

>>25363593
tell him everything. I can't remember whether we accepted her bribe but even if we did, say that we refused it.

>>25363593
"She was...well endowed to say the least- she traveled with a large retinue. Though she used an interpreter I believe she can speak our tongue well. Very very protective of whatever was in those damn wagons- something living, I think."

>>25363629
No, we refused it. Mention that we were offered gemstones

>>25363593

Tell him everything and speak the true without any omissions. About how we had some degree of suspicion and we chose to err in the side of caution by informing Egen. And how after reviewing all the events we think slavery doesn't quite fit the bill went we consider all the factors. Also our suspicion of something religious in the matter as >>25363354

>>25363593
"Of course, Lord Royce. She arrived in the night, coming to the gates of High Harrock, wishing to seek shelter for the night before continuing off to the ports eastwards, and from there back to her homeland. We gave her the guestright, and though my men attempted to check her wagons, her bodyguard was made up of Unsullied, and given their prowess, and the guest right, I did not push the issue. To my knowledge, she did not carry slaves, for her wagons would have been much too small for them. If I were to guess, given what she said, I would have thought she was here on a religious matter, though what kind, I do not know."

Tell him all the rest too, but don't mention the jewels she gave us.

>>25363629

Was it actually a bribe or just compensation for a safe night's stay?

>>25363629
It wasn't a bribe. We actually knew nothing of what she was doing. She simply offered us a gift so she could get on our good side. She never implied anything about what she was doing.

>>25363659
>>25363629
Nah, she did give us jewels in thanks for the shelter.

>>25363593
She had a large number of unsullied with her, tell her it was very unlikely she was a slaver. Rather, she was too open about her business. She kept going on about sacred matters we wouldn't understand. She offered us money and gifts, which we refused. But she was a guest in our house, and as such we were powerless to do much before we realized it might have been unwise to invite her in.

>>25363665
We should go with this - it's honest, and is everything we know, and gives our best guess as to why she was here.

>>25363665
No mention the jewels. Might as well- they weren't offered as a bribe and Yohn will find out if we want to ever actually use them for cash

>>25363593
Trouble is a big word, she came to me asking for a roof above her head, so I extended the guest right to her. Her wagons seemed suspect from a first glance, so I contacted Lord Egen and yourself, but after some logical thought, it seemed to me slaves were a very unlikely possibility. She didn't try to hide the wagons, and went through great effort to guard whatever what's inside. If it were slaves, they would have been very quiet slaves, and I doubt even then a Qohorik would go through such effort to protect so much slaves as a couple of wagons can carry. After I inquired her openly about the contents, she seemed personally protective, something I doubt she would be for slaves. Thereafter she left, and handed me a few gaudy gems as a compensation for extending my hospitality towards her. I could have done little more than this, my men would have been no match for the eunuchs guarding the wagons.

(fill in anything I'm missing)

>>25363665
Seconding this.

Suggest we might have fucked up by giving her the guestright, which tied our hands effectively.

>>25363665
Thirding this.

>>25363665
I would tell him about the jewels, if he finds out, it'll be like we were trying to hide it intentionally.

So do we mention that we were offered big honking rubies or not?

>>25363736
I say yes, it's nothing to be ashamed of, but trying to hide it may seem suspect.

>>25363733
how will he find out? Even if he somehow did there is no proof other than the foreign lady's word. Given the circumstance Yohn would be more inclined to trust us than her

>>25363736

Tell the fucking true.

>>25363687
>>25363684
>>25363665
>>25363664
>>25363354
>Going with these. They are all share similar elements. Unlikely to be slavery, focus on religious matters, the difficulty provided by the presence of the Unsullied, guest right, etcetera.
>>25363677
>>25363676
>>25363672
>>25363659
>>25363629
>>25363711
>Mention the jewels or not? There seems to be some disagreement here.

>>25363769
mention they were offered. Say that we refused to be paid for out hospitality

>>25363593
Lets see

She had brown skin, blonde hair, and gray eyes. Wore expensive clothes of black silk. Had a translator with similar skin, eyes, and clothing, but whether she needed him or not is unknown. Didn't use utensils when eating. In the morning, she was praying towards the direction of the sunrise.

Claimed to have visited an ally of Qohor to the North, but wouldn't specify who.

Had a garrison or two of spearmen in spiked hats, some of whom had their spears decorated with braids of hair. Believe them to be unsullied.

Woman was very secretive and eager to leave. Wagons were covered and well-guarded. She insisted she was not transporting slaves but wouldn't tell us what she was moving.

>>25363769
Mention the jewels, as if as an afterthought. Perhaps offer to return them, should Yohn consider them as a bribe?

>>25363769
I'm for declaring she gifted us jewels, but down play their worth.

>>25363769

Tell him, Egen probably receive something similar and he will break like an egg if he is press.

>>25363769
>>Mention the jewels or not? There seems to be some disagreement here.
On second thought, we shouldn't tell him about it. That makes us seem like we're withholding something, like we might be involved in her possible slave trade.

>>25363793
And this is how he will find out.

>>25363769


Mention them, we want Yohn to be our bro, and hiding stuff like that(legitimate compensation for shelter and guest right) from him just seems like an unnecessary risk of pissing him off. Besides, like I said, it seems completely legitimate and did not sway us to not report her to him.

>>25363769
Mention the jewels. Not mentioning them will make things even worse.

I mean even if it was intended as a bribe, we clearly didn't follow through since we wrote to Bronze Yohn and Lord Egen.

>>25363789
>>25363790
>>25363793
Fuck it. I second all of these.

>>25363804

Yeah better tell him now in the open, than hide something from him.

>>25363789
Yes this.

>>25363769
just say the truth, if he find out otherwise we're fucked beyond recovery

>>25363798
...How the fuck would freely admitting she gave us jewels make us look suspicious, who'd admit to such a thing?

>>25363789
This!

>>25363832
>How the fuck would it seem suspicious that a woman, who Lord Royce believes to be a slaver, gave us jewels.
She gave us the jewels even when we she, as a guest, didn't have to give them to us. It doesn't make sense even if it happened.

>>25363826
>>25363825
>>25363820
>>25363808
>>25363804
>>25363793
>>25363790
>>25363789
>>25363784
The gnarled old lord listens to everything you say, from the stories of her exotic appeal to the Unsullied that guarded her, from the sacred matter of the goods that she was bringing to Qohor to the unlikelyhood of the goods being slaves. He even nods along as you mention the golden jewels that this Maahira offered to you in exchange for your hospitality. Turning towards the sheepish and ever-nervous Lord Egen, the Castellan of the Vale speaks once more. It is difficult to determine his reaction to your words or what he's thinking. When he wishes it, Bronze Yohn can become as cold and unmoving as the Mountains of the Moon.
"Now you, Lord Egen. I know of how this woman and her escort entered the Vale. Tell me of how she left it, of how you met her. Leave out no detail. I expect nothing but the truth from you."

>Roll 3d6. Accepting second roll.

Rolled 5, 4, 6 = 15

>>25363939

Rolled 1, 6, 4 = 11

>>25363939

Rolled 5, 2, 4 = 11

>>25363939

>>25363956

I have a plan! If no one else roll Plasma has to take our that roll. Perfect plan I am right?

>>25363964


Could be worse.

>>25363964
Thank fuck, a half decent roll.

>>25363974
1. Refresh first, you'd see others have posted.
2. Don't pull shit like that, man. What happens is what the dice wills to happen. Plus Plasma would then just roll for us.

>>25363991

Dude I was joking, I thought it could be obvious.

>>25364005
Hard to tell over a purely written medium, anon.

>>25364011
it was pretty obvious anon

>>25363991
> Refresh first

There's an auto-update feature now.

>>25364011

Maybe I should have gone with "best plan or bestest plan" to make it more obvious.

Just woke up. First some mood music

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sa9CvDPXYNI

>>25364074
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNpUnUBhURY

>>25364074
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ww-o--ZaW5M

TIME TO PLAY THE GAME!

File: 1370905390114.png-(19 KB, 589x375, 1357850927303.png)

19 KB PNG

>mfw reading the last thread and this one, and looking forward to the next post.

Plasma died.

>>25363964
As far as you're able to tell, there's no hidden anger or disappointment in Lord Yohn Royce. No doubts or disbelief. As far as you understand, the lord seems to trust you and believe what you say. Lord Egen is an entirely different matter. Fixing the fake bravo with an expectant stare, he allows the man to launch into his tirade of nonsense.

"Lord Yohn, it is as Lord Artys said. She arrived with her host of Unsullied as my neighbour described and attempted to board a vessel that was waiting for her at my dock. Apparently she had arranged for her travel to Essos in advance, although it's rare that women arrive exactly when intended. My men prevented her boarding out of suspicion and I want to apprehend her as soon as I received news from a rider. She was a most gracious guest and explained her situation to me in the same amount of detail as she did to Lord Artys - that whatever she was carrying was sacred and was not meant to be viewed by the eyes of outsiders, such as we lords of the Vale.
"She did pay me, although not of the same quantity as she did Lord Harrock. I believe the substance is known as Qohorik amber, jewels formed from the blood of the trees that surround her peoples' city. Once she had left and once I had received news of your... interest in the situation, I began to research the people of Qohor and their sacred matters. The Black Goat of Qohor is their deity of choice, a crude idol of death and darkness. I took the time to speak with the recently deceased Laamir, a mercenary captain who served Lord Palfrey Badics before his death. As far as I was able to learn, the priesthood of this Black Goat has a fascination with the deceased. They consecrate and preserve the bodies of 'worthy' in accordance with their faith and bury the corpses deep beneath Forests of Qohor, where they are said to join the Black Goat in the afterlife. There they cavort and celebrate, waiting for the endless night at the side of their god."

>>25364337

Lord Egen clears his throat briefly, dismissing the nonsense with a nervous grin.

"All superstition, of course. Depraved nonsense but the Qohorik believe it nonetheless and from where I have learned, they gather the 'worthy' from every nation, from Casterly Rock to distant Asshai. I am unsure whether this is better or worse Lord Yohn, but I do not believe that Maahira of Qohor was dealing in slaves. Instead I believe that she came to Westeros to find corpses and cadavers 'worthy' of her god's blessing, and has returned to Qohor with them."

There is a long silence before Bronze Yohn turns to you, his expression flat and unreadable.

"Your thoughts, Artys?"

>>25364319
And resurrected.

>>25364353


Gerddanged foreigners! Coming across the border to tek ur corpses!

>>25364353

Their procession was a little macabre indeed, but I do not know the what they were moving but the more I think about it people as in live slaves seems less likely.

>>25364353
That's...certainly an odd custom. You've most certainly delved deep into the matter, Lord Egen.
Burying corpses...wasn't exactly a thing that crossed my mind after seeing the wagons.

>>25364353
"...makes about as much sense as what I dealt with."

>>25364353
"It would certainly fit my theory as to her being here for religious purposes, Lord Yohn, though I am a lot less knowledgeable on the goings-on of our neighbours across the Narrow Sea, and have never heard of this Black Goat or its ilk before. I suppose it could be possible she was carrying bodies, it would require less space than slaves, and would also explain the extent to which she wished to keep her cargo private, as she would well know what reaction we would have to her stealing away our dead."

>>25364353
We need to stay neutral as fuck and let Lord Yohn call out or support Lord Egen. So we should say something like:
"She was fond of praying to her god when she was at High Harrock. The Black Goat is a god of death, so it seems logical to believe she was transporting corpses. It's a much tamer, if more morbid, answer than slavery."

>>25364353
If that was the case, I'd like to think I'd have smelled a cart full of corpses being carted around my castle. And she seemed like such a civilized woman, too.

There is no way of knowing, I suppose. All I know is that whatever cargo she had with her, it was not slaves.

>>25364353
"Neither I nor any of my men can recall noticing the scent of corpses.

Though... that WOULD explain why she would be so secretive."

>>25364405
>>25364412


These sound good.

>>25364353
Well they did show up after the battle with the milk snakes

>>25364353
>>25364337


She did mention meeting someone in the North, and the Barrowlands are easy to reach for anyone who crosses the neck.

>>25364353

Well, fuck Egen. He pretty much threw us under the bus.

"I am sorry Lord Royce, but that is precisely why I contacted you. I have no history with the Qohorik, and am estranged as to their customs. However, what I understand is our customs, and chief amongst them is guest right. As such, this woman when she requested shelter was offered and protected under the holy law of guest right, which no man should bend or break. However, I thought it would be due diligence to contact both yourself and Lord Egen, in the case that something was indeed amiss"

>>25364405
>>25364412
>>25364434
These.

>>25364353
Disturbing the graves of the deceased is wrong, and dishonors those who were laid to rest, should I find such occuring on my lands, they'd face no better fate than those of the mountain clans I have so recently purged.

However, without proof of such things occurring or at least a strong suspicion there is not much I can do about them using the road to travel. I am also unwilling to throw the lives of my men away against such as the Unsullied only to discover nothing untoward.

There is also the political situation, should Qohorik learn that we attacked the Unsullied and tore apart a caravan full of sacred items, they would not hesitate to attack me and mine, perhaps a guard station along the road outfitted by the Lord of the Vale to inspect international trade would solve such an issue?.

>>25364440
Wait, how is he throwing us under the bus?

>>25364405
This, but point out that we saw no evidence of dead bodies, our guards got close to their wagons, but could not smell death from them.

>>25364464
Yeah that's a good point.

If she was transporting corpses, she hid it well.

>>25364460
I'm confused too.

>>25364477
>>25364434

If they took the bodies from the barrows they all could be bones and mummify flesh. No smell but old dust.

>>25364460

See if this goes pearshaped, we're in a worse position than Egen - we sheltered and took payment off of her while he took some small payment

Pointing out that they're corpse traders, and that this was a religious expedition might not be the best idea for us - it could insinuate we're corpse traders as well

>>25364353
"I know little of Qohor outside of their skill in working metal and their ability to reforge Valyrian Steel.

Lord Egen's investigation into Qohor and their traditions was much more in depth than what I know of them, and I trust that he believes what he has learned of the stones and of their celebrations involving corpses, I can not speak of his source as I did not know Laamir and his death renders him impossible to question further on the subject, but it seems plausible, men have strange traditions in far off places.

While neither myself nor my men smelled the scent of death on her nor her wagons there are probably ways to conceal such scents.

She did consider her cargo important and she would have acted in this way should she have been transporting the dead, though she would have acted in the same way should it have been any number of cargos whose transport would be frowned upon."

>>25364514
She was in our lands under guest right, not much we could do, Egen however was under no such restriction.

>>25364514
Well we certainly shouldn't get defensive about it. That'll only make things worse.

A compromise is needed.

>>25364557
>>25364594

Wait for summary judgement. Yohns no fool, and I'm sure that he will take into account we didn;t try and hide anything from him since we went to him directly and explained the situation

>>25364522
I second this.

Put the spotlight back on Egen and cooperate.

>>25364594
Maybe just say that we didn't smell any corpses, but can't really rule it out?

>>25364434
>>25364421
>>25364415
>>25364412
>>25364405
"I shall be honest to both of you. It sounds like a complete farce. There is no need for anyone to come so far for a few corpses. If she was carrying the dead with her, it would have been evident. Flies, sickness, stench. Neither of you have reported such. Your fascination with Essos does little for you, Loras. Whatever she was escorting, it was likely not of a lawful nature. Whether she was a slaver or a graverobber, she had no need to be so secretive and neither of you had any need to cater to her needs."

"I do not wish to hear of these fanciful tales of tomb raiding foreigners again. I do not wish to hear any suspicious foreigners being allowed to tread through the Vale as if they own it again. As such, I shall be keeping a close eye on the trading affairs of your lands from now on. I will be sending men loyal to Runestone and the Eyrie to ensure the legality of trade in both Crown Crag and Westpass. You shall grant them full access to your records and your transaction. You shall not let anyone pass through your lands without their knowledge and you shall allow them to send a raven to the Eyrie once every three days.

"Perhaps once I come to trust you not to cater to the whims of foreign heretics, I shall withdraw my men from your territories. So long as you obey the law of the realm, you have no reason to fear my attention.

"Do you understand?"

File: 1370907371390.jpg-(15 KB, 400x297, Court Jester.jpg)

15 KB JPG

>>25364711
Oh...o...ok

>>25364721

Yes, my lord you will not find me so careless again.

>>25364721
"That seems....reasonable"

>>25364711
I feel like we were caught under guest pass, since we had already taken her under our roof when we learned just how suspicious she was.

But it's not like we have anything suspicious to hide.

>>25364711
Awesome, free soldiers to help protect us against the mystery archers. And if not protect, Bronze Yohn will be immediately informed of their attacks because he has his own men present in the area.

I don't really see any downsides.

"Yes, you are quite right. House Harrock will make amends."

>>25364721


"Completely, My Lord. I stand ever as servant to the Eyrie and it's laws."

>>25364750
(Note to self: kill Egen)

>>25364721

'We will redouble our efforts and make amends, Lord Royce. Your words are our law'

>>25364778
And kill his son after the wedding.

>>25364721
"Of course, Lord Yohn. You need not worry about lack of cooperation, House Harrock is loyal to the Eyrie, and we will conduct ourselves as such. If there is anything else I can do, Lord Yohn, you need but ask."

>>25364778
>>25364788
This - for this farce, Egen's lands are ours.

>>25364778


We should have our master of disguise don a disguise while on the return trip, just saying. I don't want Egen knowing what he looks like.

>>25364778

Knowing him he is pissing himself over someone checking his records and transaction.

>>25364721
I had not expected such an unforgiving response, but we will do as you bid.

>>25364778
I get the feeling you're the same guy who kept saying we should make Brock take the black

>>25364721
Also, apology to Egen after this.

>>25364815
it's pretty reasonabl e. We get to keep the gems for starters. I think this will hurt Egen more then us

>>25364721


Also, if it pleases you, since we will be receiving your representatives, can we send your current representative, Ser Lyn, on his way? That guy's a total douche(or similar westerosi phrase)

>>25364820
Belmore*

>>25364820
What? Fuck no. Demand whatever the foreigner woman handed him as a dowry for the marriage.

Fucking Egen.

>>25364846
Sorry, wrong name.

>>25364836
>your current representative isn't good enough, we want another one

Yeah I'm sure he'll love that idea. How about we don't say any more stupid shit, alright?

>>25364836
Yeah I don't want him coming back with us.

>>25364809
Yeah, probably. This is also hardly his fault, he went through some pretty big efforts to find out the truth of the matter.

>>25364846
That seems a bit drastic. Let's see what our wife thinks first.

>>25364857
Let's recommend Ser Lyn to the investigatory detail of Egen.

"My Lord, if I may, I would recommend Ser Lyn to the halls of Lord Egen that he may benefit from his many talents in these trying times."

>>25364857
It's kind of his fault that Lyn is going to stab our son though.

But yeah, best to keep quiet.

>>25364805
Or send him ahead.

>>25364836
Just point out the animosity between Ser Lyn and Ser Brock, and that having them in the same castle might not bode well.

>>25364870
He did, to be fair, and he didn't throw us under the bus. He backed us up, which I approve of.

>>25364891
Oh god, that's evil...

I fucking love it.

>>25364891
that's a little too indirect. Just ask if Ser Lyn can return to royce now that we'll have another representative

>>25364857


Even he knows Lyn is a douche, Lyn was there to train our son and make sure we spent the monies fighting the Milk Snakes, he did that, we did that, Yohn is sending other, probably more stewardly reps our way, we almost killed Lyn's brother.

Any other reasons why this is a good idea?

....we could really end up with Yohn's relative Nestor

This could be problematic

>>25364800
Seconding this.

>>25364817
Aye, it's not really in character for us to go around assasinating other highborn nobles. Ruining them politically, socially and militarily yes, but not sending daggers in the dark. Especially not after children.

>>25364788
>>25364784
>>25364778
>>25364776
>>25364762
>>25364756
>>25364754
>>25364750
"Good. I do not wish to hear another word about black goats and grave-robbing Qohoriks. This is a matter of the Vale's security and I have no time for mummers' tales of snarks and wights. My men should arrive in your respective lands by the end of the month. Ser Lyn Corbray may return to his duty as a knight of the Eyrie, a man of his talent has no reason to dwell in High Harrock any longer. His work is done, after all. Your son is a knight after all. As for your other child, she seems a fair match for one of my sons. You'll hear from me about it, Artys.

"If there's nothing else, you're both free to leave. I've other things to attend to 'fore we leave for Runestone tomorrow."

Pushing himself to his feet, the gnarled Bronze Yohn turns to speak to his Maester while Lord Egen shoots to his feet, bowing low and twisting about to hurriedly leave.

Is there anything you'd like to say or do before leaving as well?

>Roll 3d6 as well. Second roll.

>>25364925
Yes, this. Tell him we don't doubt that he'll be after Brocks blood for this.

>>25364975
Or a boon, depending on how the cards play. Buddy up with Nestor and we might start repairing some of this damage.

Rolled 5, 3, 4 = 12

>>25365033
Nah we good.

Rolled 4, 2, 2 = 8

>>25365033
>she seems a fair match for one of my sons

proud father.jpg

Rolled 2, 5, 4 = 11

>>25365033
Oh please