>>40632242
>> nominate a guest to accommodate

Princess Hod. Would like to read that letter.

>>40632242
>accommodate Sir Marcel

It'll be important to connect with other local nobles.

>>40632333

Marian of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

As in the Holy Order ?

>>40632242
>Lord William Bures
I remember this guy, he liked the crit

>two holy men on deck
and here we are without our own
we dindu nuffin

>>40632316
>>40632242
Changing from princess Hod to Lord William Bures

Letter wont go anywhere and we can read it in the evening. Might be an excellent time to recruit another noble to our cause

>>40632242
Lord William Bures

>>40632242
>> nominate a guest to accommodate

Hod
Letter
NOW!

>YFW Lovetta does a surprise visit because dat Koblenz

>>40632426
Anon. Its Iovetta not Lovetta. Sometimes Yvette

>>40632434
sorry I'm pre coffee so I tend to capitalize the l before thinking.

>>40632242
>Lord William Bures

>>40632449
its an 'i' not an 'L'

Hugo fucks the red potato when?

>>40632481
NEVER

>>40632481
Once Sabeen returns to her father in Jaffa and he has no one else to shag.

>And implying he wont do both of them

>>40632481
I thought both potatoes were red?

>>40632477
>laziness using lowercase l instead of capital I

>>40632495
Etain is the pale and black haired one.

>>40632481
I think it took some wine the first time

>Raymond of Tripoli
I'm sure I've heard of this one before

>>40632509
Dude its Raymond. Remember from when we travelled to Jerusalem and he went Altair on that guard in the city ?

>>40632503
I did it to illustrate the difference, since 4chan font is san-serif.

>>40632495
slut potato is black

>>40632492
>using used goods

>>40632490
fight me Sabeenfag

>>40632549
You are aware that both Sabeen and Maggie is "used goods"

>>40632563
You are aware that Hugo is 13 and doesn't give a shit, right?

>>40632580
That was my point.

>>40632563
>maggie
>used goods

[citation needed]

>Implying she isn't a pure slut

>>40632592
>"Thank you for standin' with me," she said, "I know what they say about me. But the truth is..." she laughed, it was short and bitter. "They call me a whore but I've never done more 'an most of 'em and less than others." She laughed but it wasn't with much humour.

>>40632592
better than etain. Solomon's already had a taste of that.

>>40632637
And why should Hugo care ?

File: Used goods.png (494 KB, 661x650)

494 KB PNG

>>40632615
>Implying that wasn't church whores being Hypocrites
>implying that wasn't in refrence to peeping and shit

>>40632637
this nigga knows whats up

When last you had seen Lord William it had been at the trial. Your trial, but through your oratory skill had turned into the trial of King Fulk. You remembered William Bures had been one of the first to stand in outrage against the king, and spoke of Melisende and her father Baldwin.

The time before that however he had been the one to make your arrest, dragging you through the streets of Jerusalem like a common criminal, promising you an end at the drop of a rope if you had dared touch Ioveta.

He waited with the soldiers, directing them to the barracks. Big, grey, balding on the pate, he wore maile and a sword like others wore common garb. The man had a thin eye for you as you approached. Though this was your land, still Bures outranked you. Constable of Jerusalem and with a lordship as well, he was not the sort to give his trust nor one to forgive quickly.

But when you offered him your hand he shook it, three firm pumps with fingers like iron.

"Lord Wilhelm," he said, still gruff in the voice but not unhappy.

"Lord William," you replied. The two of you shared a name but naught else in common. Bures was an ugly man of sharp moods.

"Good of you to host us," he said, licking dry lips. His eyes were on your courtyard, the gate, the land beyond. He had an eye for such things. Practical, engineering patterns laid out, everything reduced to simple mechanisms of moving parts.

"I can hardly refuse the Queen," you replied, "I owe her everything."

William looked you up and down. "Your first service s to Lord Hugh, is it not?" he asked. It was, by feudal custom. "Will he be joining us?"

"M'lord has other guests to entertain," you replied smoothly. William gave a jowl heavy frown.

William flexed out old, cramped shoulders. "Jerusalem has long been plagued by foreigners competing for high station," he said, "And are quick to betray their oaths to achieve it."

Whether this was meant to nettle you or not you showed William no offence.

Hey, check out this song I wrote!

Iovetta, gentille Iovetta.
Iovetta, je te baiserai.
Je te baiserai la face.
Je te baiserai le seins.
Et la chatte! Et la connard!
Iovetta! Iovetta!
A-a-a-ah

It would take more than that to conjure your outrage.

He turned with a nod for his own thoughts, and directed a question at you.

"If quarrel was had between Hugh and the Queen, both of whom you owe loyalty, both of whom have rewarded your service, which side would you take?"

> Hugh, he is my liege lord
> Melisende, she is my sovereign queen
> Is quarrel expected between them?

>>40632757
>> Is quarrel expected between them?

But the Queen above all else

>>40632757
> Is quarrel expected between them?

>>40632757
> Allahu akbar

>>40632757
> Is quarrel expected between them?
> Melisende, she is my sovereign queen
We pretty much swore to treat Melisende as ultimate sovereign with him, and we're here to stay, so yeah

Rolled 29 (1d100)

>>40632757
> write in
Neither. I'd have to know the cause of the quarrel first. Otherwise I'd sit by and urge nonviolence.

>>40632757

>other
"Both. Lord Hugh is my liege and Her Majesty, my Queen. I would take steps to attempt to mediate between both of them and help bring an end to the quarrel."

>>40632757
> Melisende, she is my sovereign queen

>>40632822
Wouldn't that be acting out of station? All kinds of conflict of interest there too

>>40632757
> I take the side of peace, my good man.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpVXmc8LrpM

we Charlamange 2.0 now

>>40632810
You are aware that that would make us a traitor, right ?
>>40632822
Again. Traitor and acting outside of our station

>>40632757
>> Melisende, she is my sovereign queen

>>40632856
How is that acting outside our station?

>>40632856
I don't understand. Does our oath to the Queen come before our lord? Does not either station have rights?

>>40632907
We're a low-ranking count. Our immediate liege is our superior. We do not get to approach him (or the queen for that matter) as a peer for mediation.

Ideally a bishop would mediate in that situation. That's what the church is for. It's outside the feudal power structure.

>>40632907
We are a lower ranking lord and expected to provide support to the one we are loyal to. Not to sit behind preaching about what they should be doing. That is how a Feudal society works. Our Liege Lord and/or Queen grants us privleges and land we return it with support of troops.
>>40632942
My point is. That there is not sitting in between. You have to make a choice. Not doing so would make us a traitor to both

>>40632968
This anon gets it.

>>40632942
I think he means we have no place being noble counsel and outright denying any vow we've made. Because feudalism is shitty like that.

Even then, Hugh and Wilhelm swore first by the Queen.

>>40632968
>Not doing so would make us a traitor to both
Well, we're going to take them both out eventually.

>>40632997
>Well, we're going to take them both out eventually.

Why ? We have no interest in Jerusalem. It is Eqypt we are after

>>40632997
No. No we're not.

>>40632968
Cheers for the instruction anon. Still viewing things through modern lenses.

>>40632997
Anon pls no power trippping

>>40632997
Anon we Liu Bei not Cao Cao.

>>40633039
But we are after Eqypt. Not any land held by our family.

>>40632997
NO

Hugh maybe but not the queen, we have no interest in Jerusalem's power structure beyond what we can siphon off it.


>>40632956
>>40632968
Far point but reputation may allow us to get away with it soon

>>40633039
>Liu bei

Nigga wat?

>>40633039
Yeah, which means we're after the title of King.

>>40633052
We're after Iovetta. Egypt is just a way to get to her.

"Is quarrel expected between them?" you asked. If it was, it was all news to you.

William laughed. It wasn't a pleasant sound. "None can say what the future holds. Any that do is either a prophet or a liar. And since the age of prophets is over, that decides it. Ten years from now Melisende might war with her own son. Hugh has a claim to the throne. A strong one. If he wanted to, he could mount an effort."

William licked his lips again. "He'd fail, of course. But he could still try."

You offered William a drink from your skin and he took it with a nod. "I think you misjudge Count Hugh," you said, "He loves Melisende."

William snorted. "That's why I worry. Love can take a foolish turn. He may well think rebellion is the way best to win her hand. Take her crown, annul her marriage and force her into wedlock."

"You are paranoid," you say the words with no sting in them, but you had to think it was far fetched.

William shrugged. "Such thoughts keep me up at night. I have no wife to while away the late hours, so my mind turns to the realm. I would see it safe from all threats. Inside and out, and before they can be truly threatening. What of you Lord Wilhelm? Would you do the same?"

> I would, inside or out, before they can bloom
> I would only act on real threats m'lord, not late night musings

>>40633089
> I would, inside or out, before they can bloom

Crush it while it is in infancy.

>>40633089
> I would, inside or out, before they can bloom

Charisma threats away before they become a thing.

>>40633089
> I would only act on real threats m'lord, not late night musings

>>40633089
> I would deal with threats as they appear.

>>40633089
> I would only act on real threats m'lord, not late night musings
Let's be serious, our record isn't the most sterling on prevention (lol bastards). We take things we can hit.

The realm needs both kind of men

>>40633089
> I would, inside or out, before they can bloom

>>40633089
>Ten years from now Melisende might war with her own son.

I see what you did there HF

> I would only act on real threats m'lord, not late night musings

>>40633186
>>40633163
Guys we are trying to win his support. Might not be the best way of doing things considering what kind of person he is.

>>40633186
changing to

> I would, inside or out, before they can bloom

Honestly we're in uncharted waters historically so lets be cautious eh?

>>40633199
>being a silver tongued demagogue

>>40633089
>> I would, inside or out, before they can bloom

>>40633232
>not being a silver tongued demagogue

>>40633089
>> I would, inside or out, before they can bloom

''speaking of that I have a proposition that concerns such things perhaps we could speak of such things later?''

Hmm.

Should we mention we captured that kebab and lopped off his hand in prep for interrogation?

He would absolutely love to have a go at his tongue.

>>40633293
That dude is in Jaffa. But we do have the Caliph's cousin.

>>40633302
Yes. I mean, should we tell him that the prisoner exists?

>>40633323
We could. Might earn us some good will points.

>>40633323
He exists only as our Reek

>>40633323
>>40633331
or he may just demand we remand him into the custody of the queen.

>>40633345
Then thats not up to us. Thats to Lord Hugh.

>>40633339
Dear god, man. No.

>>40633345
That too

>>40633354
nope

>Queen>Hugh

plus Hugh doesn't know that we have someone that important with us

>>40633323
Officially, we were helping our liege clean house. We can comment on the battle, but the prisoner is Hugh's

>>40633354
but why would we even bring it up? I doubt it will net us any "good points" and seems more like

"Neiner Neiner Neiner, look at all the rasom i'm going to get from my noble prisoner.

>>40633373
I mean, its not our prisoner anymore. He'll need to speak to Lord Hugh to get the prisoner transferred.

>>40633400
For potential interrogation.

We have a new source of good intel. I'm sure he would appreciated being CC'd our findings.

>>40633403
I think you've confused the Caliph's cousin with the guy we handed to Hugh last thread

>>40633403
Its not that prisoner anon. Its the Caliph's cousin and not the raid leader.

File: Spoiler Image (35 KB, 379x200)

35 KB GIF

>>40633355
What's the matter, don't like bratwurst?

>>40633420
>>40633423

>lopped off his hand in prep for interrogation?

no, I always meant the raid leader.

You thought about his words and could not entirely disagree.

"I suppose, at the very least if I were Constable, that yes. I would do the same."

William grinned. He tapped a finger upon your shoulder.

"And that my German friend, is why I don't entirely trust you. You have a game I think. Some gambit you are looking to play. Whether for the good or ill of Jerusalem is the question. And if it is for ill, be certain that you will find in me an enemy."

He cuffed your shoulder and walked away, shaking his head and chuckling to himself.

You did not think Bures an enemy, so long as you did not give him cause to see you as an enemy. That he had told you his intention so plainly was reassuring in a way. If he were to stab you it would be in the chest, not the back.

The Constable returned to the division of the Jerusalem troops. Some of the soldiers had gone to great their friends in your own garrison, soldiers from Jaffa and those gifted to you by Melisende. It was your local Ramla troops that seemed apart. Unbloodied beside their comrades, not yet proven shoulder to shoulder in the press of war.

Time would fix that.

You returned to your hall. Sir Marcel had his servants assisting the two priests with their goods. Hodierna you could not see, though no doubt she was making her presence known. Sir Raymond sat in the shadows, drinking watered wine. The man wore wry amusement like a cloak, looking on the world as if it were a jape.

His eyes followed Maggie and Etain as they passed, chatting away about some local gossip.

"It's getting too fucking crowded," Franz was at your shoulder, eyeing the crowd, "Too fucking crowded by half. If I knew you'd be hobnobbing this much I'd have fucked off in Germany. Taken a job as some Imperial game keeper."

You chuckled. The old Jew was not being serious. In the last half a year he'd been grumbling about such, but you knew he enjoyed the sun, and the company of a matronly widow in the town itself. Your men were becoming enmeshed into the local scene. Tancred had even brought out his family. All save the eldest boy, who remained in Jaffa serving Count Hugh. You expected his next two boys would eventually join their father under arms in your service.

They had his build, and long arms.

"I'll leave m'lord for now," Franz muttered, "M'lord must not be seen keeping such lowborn company as this Jew." He had called you such in half-mocking tone. 'M'lord'. In public at least. He walked away, a noticeable hitch in his knee.

You did have other guests to attend to.

Fathers Desmond and Marian were setting up a small altar in your hall. Something your holding had long missed.

> nominate a guest

>>40633477
> nominate a guest
The Queen If avaliable if not Raymond.

>>40633477
Hodierna

>>40633477
Orlando.

Also, hey look, we said what he expected.

>>40633477
The Fathers. See if maybe you can convince one to remain?

>>40633499
Probably busy fucking Rosalie
>>40633501
That is why he is here.

>>40633501
Voting for this.

>>40633464
>"It's getting too fucking crowded," Franz was at your shoulder, eyeing the crowd, "Too fucking crowded by half. If I knew you'd be hobnobbing this much I'd have fucked off in Germany. Taken a job as some Imperial game keeper."

Oh Franz how I've missed you

> nominate a guest

Hod or the priests

>>40633477
To the queen!

>>40633477
Raymond, our man with the good eye

>>40633501
>tfw they are related to the rolls

>>40633501
This is great

Be back in a minute.

File: WaitingWithADrink.jpg (167 KB, 900x670)

167 KB JPG

>>40633683

File: kingdom of jerusalem.jpg (963 KB, 1943x2400)

963 KB JPG

So Hugh fucks us over on ascalon

>Wat do?

>>40633729
Make sure we have more people loyal to us than to him and the support of the Queen.

>>40633729
We take the churches whole for brownie points with the clergy, then side with the italian interests to keep them honest.

Best case scenario? We make Ascalon and sorrounding castles a new County.

>>40633729
To prevent Hugh or any other Lord from jewing us out of Ascalon we need siege craft, soldiers, gold, and connections.

>>40633761
If Ascalon goes well we should maybe considering going for Darum and Gaza aswell and have the Queen make us Duke of the Jaffa-Ascalon Duchy

>>40633796
That would piss off Hugh so much, it would be better just to wage our own private war with Egypt after we gain Lordship of Ascalon

Okay, counting up I think we have a tie.

Let's get a final destination vote going

> the queen
> hodierna
> the priests
> raymond

>>40633790
We will have siege craft
Soldier support can be gotten by cozying up to the Hospitallers (Templars will want to murder too much)
Gold (in future investments) we've left in the hands of Lucca
Connections we're a bit too small yet. But the Queen won't let Iovetta live meagerly

>>40633853
> hodierna

>>40633853
> hodierna

>>40633853
> the priests

>>40633853
> the priests

>>40633853
>raymond

>>40633853
> raymond

Sorry for the trouble.

I just got a vpn (because of the new Australian anti-piracy laws) and forgot 4chan hates VPNs so I tried to buy a pass (as I understand it passes let you get around the VPN ban), but it wouldn't accept my card for some bloody reason.

A small headache.

>>40633853
>> hodierna

>>40633853
> raymond

>>40633853
> the priests

>>40633853
>> hodierna

letter I just pray Iovetta isn't doing something stupid

>>40633853
> the priests

>>40633910
You know how the 'final destination' votes work, right? Quote only, no other text.

>>40633853
> the priests

>>40633853
> raymond

Priests win.

Give me a second.

The two priests were Father Desmond and Father Marian. Desmond was a bald Irishman, broad chest and tall, wrinkles forming around his eyes and lips. Marian was a Frankish-Levant, born to Jerusalem. He was not so tall as his Irish companion, but still had his hair, a fading brown. Both were of a like age, some where over forty. Currently they were erecting a cross in an alcove of your hall. A small altar, a shrine of sorts. The cross was heavy and ornate, metal wrought with gold.

"A gift from the Patriarch," said Desmond, his voice only carrying a little of that Irish brogue.

"He thought Ramla may need some of god's attention," Marian added with a small chuckle. It seemed the aged Patriarch had not entirely forgiven you for leading his pupil away from holy oaths, but if his distrust involved such generous gifts you could stand to invoke some more.

Marian dusted off his hand and offered it to you. "I'm Marian, he is Desmond. Our thanks for your hospitality."

You took it and shook. "My thanks for your company father, both of you. My hall is open to the Church."

"Be careful, many a priest will leave you empty of larder," Desmond said, "Though I noted you have a pair of St Anne's runaways in company. The Connacht girl, and the lass from Dublin way."

Etain to the first and Maggie was the second.

"Good of you to see both girls well sheltered, who knows what evils they might find otherwise," Marian said, though his companion eyed your hall with disapproval. No doubt he reckoned it ungodly.

"They're a pair to be sure," you replied.

Desmond sat before the cross. "Well as we might get this over with. The Patriarch has instructed one of us to remain in Ramla, as per your letter. The choice is yours. Myself or Marian here. Fair warning, Marian snores like a saw edge on metal."

Marian rolled his eyes.

> Desmond
> Marian
> decide later

>>40634147
> Marian

Sounds more worldly.

>>40634147
Desmond

>>40634147
>Marian

Seems sensible, and we don't want more potatoes.

>>40634147
> Marian

While he was a bit dissaproving of us. He does sound more wordly and will most likely be the one to bite us in the ass the least.

>>40634147
>> decide later

Best to get the full measure of them both

>>40634147
> decide later
Right now I'm leaning towards Marian not Desmond. That may change later on in the evening as a nice face may hide a foul heart.

>>40634147
> decide later
Let them benefit from out hospitality more, at least. Then we find out who has less trouble with our medic

>>40634147
> Desmond

>>40634147
> decide later

Hey HF, you see this thing?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgvXnDuvj-g

>>40634147
> Marian

>>40634147
>> decide later

>>40634147
> decide later
Is one of them more inclined to stay than the other? They probably both have their own opinions. Either seems fine though, not as much difference between these two as some of our other retainer/companion choices.

Is worldliness good to have in a priest?

>>40634265
>Is worldliness good to have in a priest?
With the kind of character Wilhelm is? Yes

>>40634265
Friar Tuck ring a bell?

Worldly Priests are bro-tier.

>>40634265
I'm more worried about our population and muslim companions. Faithful could make for better morale, but even then.

>>40634311
Wouldnt worry too much about the muslims. They are returning to Jaffa after Christmas.

>>40634325
Not our doctors.

>>40634340
Oh right. Totally forgot about them

We rolled a 70 on our priest roll, we should be good to okay whoever we choose.

You shake your head.

"We've time for such things later," you said, inviting Desmond to stand, "I would like to know more of you both before making such a decision. This is my soul and the souls of my family we are speaking of, though I'm sure you are both fine men."

"Fair enough," Desmond said. Marian helped him to his feet. "A man shouldn't rush to god blindly, but consider each step ahead of him first."

Marian inclined his head. "Well said," Marian replied. He thumped you on the shoulder. "If you've need of us we will likely be milling around this area, bothering the flock with the word of god."

"If they choose to listen," Desmond added, "Some try for forced conversion, but Christ can only be accepted with an open heart, which begins with an open set of ears."

Marian rolled his eyes. "Five 'our father's' and be done with it. The faithful will be faithful, the others will not. Never mind the busy work."

They began to walk away, and you heard Desmond remark to his friend - "You should not be so callous in your words brother, all are due God's love and our attention. Be they sinner or saint."

You considered the cross they left behind. It truly was a finely crafted piece. You ran a hand over the edges, feeling the indents under your skin. A thing to leave behind you, for all to remember through out the ages. The Patriarch had done you well, even as he made his displeasure known. Perhaps Ioveta had been in his ear, singing your praise and settling some of his misgivings.

The day was crawling on, and a night of feasting would be due. Still you had time to call on one other, guest or companion.

> nominate a companion or guest

>>40634366
>HODERIENA

>>40634366
>> nominate a companion or guest

Think we can finally visit Hod. So kind of her to visit her despite our poor first impression. I believe the words "Ignorant Savage" was used.

>>40634366
> Hodierna

>>40634366
It's Hod time.

>>40634366
>Hodierna
Why not. I trust Raymond to be smart on his own. Only thing left is Sir Marcel for later, and maybe Chiri can take care of that.

>>40634366
Wow, Desmond just won some points with me.

>>40634366
Hodierna because anon wants it and none other apparently. Not even Raymond who could help with ascalon.

>>40634419
Nobody loves Raymond.

>>40634419
Tripoli & Antioch are unlikely to help because they are threatened by Zengi

>>40634441
It would still be a good idea to chat with the man about it in any case. Even if he sends a few knights and men at arms he would be rewarded.

>>40634492
True but it can't hurt to talk to Hod before hand

As the day is closing you search for Princess Hodierna.

She has made a home in her quarters, directing the servants Melisende had brought to attend her, and keeping with her a number of lower born ladies in waiting. Still nobility, but of no significant lineage or holding.

When you rapped upon the door with the back of your hand she turned from her French barked directions to see you, and offered a smile.

She and Melisende were much alike in face and feature, though Hodierna was of fuller a figure. There was much debate about which was the more beautiful. Hodierna wore her hair bound up in a complicated, knotted braid. For a woman of twenty-four, and so lovely in appearance, there must be a story for her spinster status.

"Welcome to Ramla princess," you said, "I hope you find the lodgings suitable."

"I feel most welcome, Lord Ramla," she replied with a curtsy, "And the rooms are adequate. Perfectly adequate."

She offered you her hand.

> kiss it
> bow over it

>>40634575
>> kiss it

We still have our manners.

>>40634575
>> kiss it

>>40634575
> kiss it

>>40634575
>> kiss it

>>40634575
is this even a real choice?

we all know we are going for the kiss.

>>40634575
> kiss it

>>40634575
> kiss it

>>40634575
> kiss it
JUST
>"And the rooms are adequate. Perfectly adequate."
[french intensifies]

You lowered your head and pressed your lips to the back of her milk smooth hand. Hodierna gave a slight breath as you straightened up, a smile on her face like a cat that had itself a bowl of cream.

"Impeccably mannered, why you'd hardly be thought a German the way you carry on," she said, playfully batting your shoulder.

She had once called you a savage with anger in her eyes. Now they were soft and warm, blue much like Ioveta's. Without that anger you could see more her loveliness. Smooth and youthful, honey haired and milk skinned. She stepped with a bounce that spoke of playfulness that you well liked, in character and form.

And the way her eyes traced your form, not at all bothering with subtlety, you could see she enjoyed the sight of you as well.

"You make a much better second impression, scrubbed of all that prison dirt," she said, and then tapped your chin, "Though you could stand a beard. Men should not be as hairless as a girl."

You chuckled. "You are not the first princess to say so." It made you wonder if the late King Baldwin had favoured a beard.

Hodierna went to her saddlebags and produced from it a letter. "My sister entrusted this to me," she said, offering it to you. Before you could reach for it, she held it back. "I've not read it, but I do wonder if you deserve it. My sister has twisted herself into a knot over you." Her eyes spoke of mischief.

She handed it to you anyway. And gave it with a kiss on your cheek.

"I suppose I cannot blame her," she said, falling back from her tip-toes, "You cut a fine figure in lord's garments."

Was it the French thing to give a kiss so casually? You put the letter inside that fine lord's doublet you wore.

> thank her for the letter
> ask after the other letter that Melisende had spoke of

>>40634756
> thank her for the letter
Then always be polite. Always.
> ask after the other letter that Melisende had spoke of

>>40634756
>Though you could stand a beard.
HF, we've been growing a beard for months, try to keep up. It's our thing where we leave it unshaved until we meet Iovetta once again, or something like that.

>>40634756
>> ask after the other letter that Melisende had spoke of

>>40634756
>> ask after the other letter that Melisende had spoke of

But do thank her for the letter.

>>40634756
> thank her for the letter
I guess it's time for reading before dinner?

>>40634794
I believe it was that Iovetta gives us a shave when we leave to go on a trip away from her?

>>40634756

Voting for this >>40634777

Always pays to be polite to princesses.

But i am in favour of growing a beard. Well trimmed ofcourse. Dont want to look like an unruly barbarian

>>40634891
We already have a beard. We only had it shaved that one time for the trial a few months ago. HF just made a slight mistake is all.

>>40634777
Seconding

>>40634911
I just assumed we continued to shave even after.

>>40634933
No, there was an agreement that we wouldn't shave for Iovetta's sake.

>>40634756
HAVE HODIERNA COMPLIMENT OUR BEARD

>>40634969
When I might have missed it but I don't think we ever promised that.

>>40634999
We did, a lot of anons said that we should grow a beard after the trial.

>>40634989
anon pls

>>40634999
back when we got out of prison & Iovetta was shaving us

>>40635033
Apparently HF is sending us to hell without our consent by forcing us to break oaths

>>40635009
>>40635033
Okay thanks anons I think I remember a bit of it now.

"My thanks for the letter," you said, "I have hoped for word from my Ioveta, and to have it means a great deal. If you would return to her a letter of my own, you would have my gratitude."

"'My' Ioveta?" Hodierna asked with a look of fake indignation, "So presumptuous aren't we?" She smoothed the front of your doublet with both hands. "But I shall convey your letter to her. She longs for it more, I think, to hear from her dashing knight."

"And I suppose she had to make do with that other letter?" it was statement and question. Hodierna's brow furrowed when she looked up at you. "The queen made some mention of a correspondence that has been much the joy of the royal chambers."

Hodierna's lips formed a perfect little 'Oh!' of understanding, her brows raising.

"Yes, that letter," her hands smoothed down to hitch into your sword belt, "It was quite entertaining to read of your exploits. You seem quite the accomplished negotiator."

The truth was the the truth.

She drew back her hands from where they lopped and smoothed her own skirts, along the thighs. "Still, it was much ungodly of you with a betrothed waiting so loyally. Keeping it from Ioveta was a chore. I do not know what her reaction would be to reading it."

Melisende had mentioned Ioveta had already seen its contents, but you did not think Hodierna was lying. Perhaps the queen had been goading you with a lie. Or mayhap it was Hodierna teasing you. Or both in joint effort. You could not know. The Rethel women seemed to enjoy flirtatious games, if games they were and not guarded tests.

It was a joyful torment they were making you endure.

> flirt a little more with Hodierna
> enough chit-chat, the feast awaits

>>40635081
> stroke our glorious beard

>>40635081
> enough chit-chat, the feast awaits My lady.

>>40635081
> flirt a little more with Hodierna

Lets see if we can get some more out of her

>>40635081
>> enough chit-chat, the feast awaits

Bed the queen. not the hod.

>>40635081
> enough chit-chat, the feast awaits
I ship her and Raymond together

>>40635120
seconding If only for the Glorious slogan

>>40635009
If they did they didn't make enough of a hay about it for me to remember.

Wilhelm will start growing a beard in earnest starting tomorrow.

>>40635081
> enough chit-chat, the feast awaits
HA HA time for Raymond, maybe music

File: Diagnosis... BAD QMING!.png (214 KB, 512x384)

214 KB PNG

>>40635128
No, we've been growing it for months, you can't just do away with what we said. Plus, we didn't make enough hay about it because we thought you read the posts and understood what we wanted. Do you not read the posts between the votes?

>>40635128
might want to put it as a vote at the end of the thread in case theirs some anon that don't want to grow a magnificent bread. That way theirs less reason for them to bitch about it.

>>40635168
Think you might be overreacting there anon

>>40635168
Anon chill

>>40635168
Mate calm down. It might just be what ya typed but you seem a might pissed. HF hasn't fucked us over yet and I doubt he'd do it now.

>>40635168
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lw0sAKVaB0w

>>40635210
A princess made a disparaging remark at our expense. It made me feel like I was in middle school all over again. Plus, HF needs to lock down his shit and keep it orderly instead of making assumptions.

>>40635236
She made a small jest. Hardly something to get ones panties in a twist over.

>>40635128
We made plenty of hay back in that thread with the beard shaving. If you remember that we shaved the beard, then how come you didn't remember the many posts after that saying we wished to grow out the beard after the trial?

We'd better get both Hodierna and the Queen's approval of our dick before we can officially marry Ioveta

You know, I don't remember voting to shave our beard after that one time. If we didn't vote to do something, then why would it happen?

>>40635210
HF is a liar. He said he takes write-ins and shit and it's a fucking lie. This is just like Sidon only he's raping our face with razors and soap.

Reminder Iovetta knows Wilhelm has a handsy bed warmer

>>40635261
I just looked in that thread their was like three anons that said we should grow it back besides the votes to keep it trimmed.

We totally should have wandered into the queen's room last session, dammit.

>>40635343
I don't want to get with the Queen. Just not interested.

>>40635343
>not safer when everyone is drunk

I'm really, really not in the mood for being complained at mid-thread - about a beard of all things.

Usually I like to think I'm pretty patient. And I'm trying to let this slide and get on with things, but for whatever reason today is just not a good day.

I don't care if you are being serious or if you are joking. It's really not sitting well with me right now.

I'm asking you, please, drop it.

I'm making a compromise. Wilhelm will grow out his beard. If its that important to you, he'll have a beard in a couple of months.

>>40635354
He already has a beard.

>>40635354

Keep on trucking HF. Just some quarrelsome arse making noise.

We've got your back.

>>40635354
You know who also shaved people without their consent? Germans.

>>40635354
>Please Ignore the shitposter most of us are happy if Wilhelm starts growing a beard from now on

>>40635354
Just ignore the Australians shitposting about beards, your brain will thank me.

>>40635354
Well thanks for running tonight mate. Hope shit works out for ya. Anons are never going to stop complaining about anything and everything.

>>40635354
You should have asked us about whether we grew a beard instead of writing that we didn't.

>>40635388
the last time a beard was ever mentioned in this quest we voted to shave it off and not have one, stop shitposting about it.

>>40635415
And then we voted to grow a beard from that moment on, for our fiancee. We promised her we would. And HF fucking ignored it.

>>40635425
I demand a vote to continue to not have a beard.

>>40635425
Actually we didnt promise her a thing and it was only 3 anons who was talking about growing out a beard afterward. Are you really this buttblasted over Hod's little jest ?

>>40635425
just drop it and stop making shit up you ass.

>>40635168
looks like the butthurt anon from the greek connection is back

No beard

No beard.

Po beard

i never voted for no beard

>>40635425
Fucking quit being assblasted over a beard of all things

No Beard

>>40635459
>>40635454
>>40635447
>>40635441

A bit pointless.

>>40635425
>>40635432
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ciS3iO9sTE

If HF ends early over this i will be quite cross. And will start voting no to beards.

Everybody stop talking about it like HF asked and move the fuck on.

>>40635354
Goddamn, it's 3 in the fucking morning and you're letting some shitbag dictate what you should be QMing? Ignore the cuntbag and continue as you were, you've made a perfectly good concession to the pleb as it is.

The amount of sleep I've sacrificed to catch this thread live may as well be wasted if this thread goes kaput.

>>40635425
I'm going for a shit now, and I'm going to imagine every wipe of my bearded ass will be your tounge.
When I come back you will accept that clean-shaven is the way of the lord and shut the fuck up.

>>40635425
You're a fun-hating cockmongering asshat, y'know that? HF conceded he made a mistake and he's rectifying it so shut the fuck up and enjoy the goddamn show you killjoying motherheifer.

>>40635354
2am here in Texas, please don't let a shitposter ruin the thread.

So we can all agree this is Wilhelm before & after prison right?

>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PK3x2DOoJIc
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEryAoLfnAA

"You are a diligent guardian," you said, taking Hodierna by the arm, "She is lucky to have you watching over her."

"My sister is a true innocent," Hodierna replied, taking your arm. You led her from the room, toward the feasting hall. "I only seek to preserve that which time erodes in all."

"Is innocence doomed to be lost?" you pondered aloud.

Hodierna considered it, though the question was not meant for answering. "The Church teaches us that all are born in sin, and only baptism can wash away that sin. Still, beyond baptism, who can say?"

The hall was well set, Rosalie had marshaled her considerable talents and the resources of your holding to present a fine welcoming meal to your guests. The seneschal herself waited by the main table, set for noble guests. Sir Ramond and Sir Marcel waited, as did Father Desmond. Some seats were empty. Father Marian, as well as the seat meant for Solomon and Sir Etienne sat empty.

The town Reeve, a man named Xenophane, sat far to the end of the table, keeping company with Sir Marcel.

You took Hodierna to her chair, and took your own seat. It placed you beside Sir Raymond. The other seat beside you was empty, awaiting the Queen herself. Servants poured wine for the waiting guests.

"Lord Wilhelm, it is good to see you again," Raymond said. You'd not spent long in his company, but Hugo had spoken highly of the man. He had saved your brother's life on the streets of Jerusalem.

"It is good to have you in my hall, Sir," you said. In time and with god's favour Raymond would be Count of Tripoli. It was best to be respectful.

"We may be brothers soon," he said, gesturing to Hod with his goblet. "I spy my future wife. I hear tell yours remains in Jerusalem."

Your betrothal to Ioveta was not meant to be known of outside the royal circle. It sent a chill down your spine. You looked to Raymond but the man just smiled and drank.

File: Spoiler Image (173 KB, 1920x856)

173 KB JPG

>>40635533
This is Wilhelm always.

Your attention was taken however, by the arrival of the queen.

She wore a dress of blue and white, with golden thread along the collar and trailing cuffs. It fit snuggly to her figure, and she walked as ever with tall pride. Above her breast was woven the cross of Jerusalem. Her gold-honey hair had been braided back in a single lthick ong tail that swung like a pendulum behind her. She walked with company, Hugo had her hand, and escorted her to the empty seat.

"My thanks," she told the squire, "You are as much a gentleman as ever. And growing tall. Soon we will be a height."

Hugo blushed and bowed, retreating to his own table. His companions there laughed at his red cheeks. Melisende herself smiled at the awkward young man, before turning her eyes onto you.

The other guests had returned, filling the empty table, and conversation soon filled the hall. Solomon looked concerned by something, leaning on an arm and gazing off into space. Etienne chatted with Father Marian.

You thought it appropriate to make a toast.

> To Count Hugh
> To Queen Melisende
> To Jerusalem
> write-in

>>40635569
>> To Queen Melisende

She is Jerusalem after all and our guest of honour

>>40635569
> To Jerusalem
Don't wanna come off as a brown-noser, and it's appropriate because the Queen rules Jerusalem.

>>40635569
> To Queen Melisende

>>40635569
> write-in
To the Caliphate and Allah!

>>40635569
>> To Queen Melisende & Jerusalem

>>40635569
>''To Queen Melisende & the Future of Jerusalem may it be forever God's will that it remain in christian hands''

>>40635569
>>40635603

Deus Vult

>>40635569
> To Count Hugh who afforded me the opportunity to host such beloved guests as you all. Though none more so than the Queen herself!

>>40635569
> To Jerusalem

>>40635569
>To Jerusalem

>>40635569
> To ME, I'm so great

>>40635569
>> write-in
TO NO BEARDS

>>40635569
>> write-in
TO PO BEARDS

>>40635569
> To Jerusalem

>>40635354
>I'm making a compromise. Wilhelm will grow out his beard. If its that important to you, he'll have a beard in a couple of months.
So if this hadn't been brought up for discussion, you still wouldn't have let us grow out our beard despite that comment about our lack of one?

>>40635569
To whoever it was that landed us

>>40635569
>To Queen Melisende
>no honoring guests

>>40635741
Hugh. The count of Jaffa. The trial probably helped. Ya know with Wilhelm dethroning the king and instating the queen with the power of Koblenz voice. Which shouldn't be used carelessly lest it lose power.

>>40635569
Get everyone's attention by clearing your throat and tapping a spoon to your cup.

Toast your lord Hugh, then the Queen.

>>40635778
Fus roh DAH

>>40635491
>you've made a perfectly good concession to the pleb as it is.
What concession? He isn't giving us what's ours. It's been months both in game time and real time since that trial thread, Wilhelm should have a kick-ass beard by now. What you call a concession is a vote to grow a beard or not that wouldn't have been given to us had I not told HF that he should ask us whether or not we grew a beard. That concession is lazy because he should have given us that choice in the first place. No, he should have asked us in the first place.

>>40635816
William is 18... he won't have a kickass-beard in 10 years

>>40635816
It is the TINIEST detail
Btw Wilhelms 17 so it's be unlikely for him to be able to grow a full beard

You stand and raise your horn of wine.

The crowd turns to watch you, Melisende inclines her head and Hodierna leans over the table. Even Jacques quits from plucking at Hugo's cheeks to give you his full attention. You had that effect on a room.

"God has a kingdom," you said, "A kingdom in heaven that awaits all true Christian souls. But while we live our lives in hopes for that eternal salvation, we have Jerusalem. The precious home of Christ, his birth, his death, his Resurrection. Blessed is it among kingdoms!"

"Jerusalem!" horns, tankards, goblets, they were lifted in toast as good Christian men cheered.

"And to its Queen," you gesture to Melisende, who deigns to stand, "For she and Jerusalem are one, just as both are beloved by all their subjects!"

"Melisende!"

They drank to that, tipping back whatever swill they had in their cups with hearty glee.

She did not blush but gave a dimpled smile, and a sly look for you as she sipped her own horn before returning to her seat.

You cut her a slice of beef which she took from the end of your knife.

"Well said," was all the compliment she had.

"Very well said," Raymond said with more enthusiasm.

The feast seems to be going well, you see Sabeen tip half a tankard over Franz's glum head, much to the laughter of her comrades, and Hugo flicks a grape at her in retaliation for his slighted old friend. They quarrel over the table good natured, pokes and pulls at one another's sleeves, until they spill Tancred's wine, and the soldier separates the pair forcefully.

Your own company s not so rowdy. Hodierna speaks with your sister Mathilde, and your sister says some witticism that causes the princess to laugh. The queen focuses mostly on her meal.

> coax some conversation from the Queen
> speak with Sir Raymond instead
> settle for just observing the action of others

>>40635851
>settle for just observing the action of others

>>40635851
> coax some conversation from the Queen

Think we might have offended her by not entering the room with her in the last thread

>>40635851
> speak with Sir Raymond instead
How long in Jerusalem's court by now?

>>40635816
17 year old William probably could not grow the majestic beard you are wanting for several years.

>>40635842
18 since for fucking ever anon

>>40635851
> coax some conversation from the Queen while observing the others

>>40635865
He spent most of his time in Tripoli anon. He even invited us to visit for the feast but we chose to go to Sidon

>>40635851
> settle for just observing the action of others

>>40635851
>> coax some conversation from the Queen

>>40635867
HE WAS ABLE TO GROW A BEARD IN A PRISON CELL, WITH A BOX OF SCRAPS

>>40635851
> coax some conversation from the Queen

>>40635851
>> coax some conversation from the Queen

>yet to read the letter

>>40635907
a scruffy horrible thing, not a true beard.

>>40635851
> speak with Sir Raymond instead thank him for Hugo's life if we haven't yet.

>>40635920
After the party anon

“Hello, Elaise, look at yourself, now back to me, now back at yourself, now back to me. Sadly, you aren't me, but if you stopped being a little bitch and bedding imaginary ladies, you could be the son King Fulk wanted, like me. Look down, back up, where are you? You’re on knees infront of the King with the son you could be. What’s in your hand, back at me. I have it, it’s a Lion Helm. Look again, the helm is now ladies. Anything is possible when you're half the son Hugo is. I’m on a rouncy.”
Everyone on both sides of the bullshit are acting like Elias. Don't be like Elias.

>>40635851
> settle for just observing the action Raymond and the Queen
See what they are doing and decided who you want to approach.

Also I'm slightly worried how Raymond will react to us bedding the queen since hes got his heart set for her, and has told us this many times. I figure we are doing a one night stand/booty call right?

>>40635940
kek

>>40635946
Raymond is after Hod anon he even said so himself just a few moments ago

>>40635946
Raymond's after hod.

Anyone after the queen has a death sentence on his head.

>>40635924
We need our lion's mane, yo!

File: laughingblackman.gif (3.59 MB, 298x224)

3.59 MB GIF

>>40635940

>>40635940
Elaise - The fusion of Elias and Blaise

>>40635962
>>40635950
My bad, thanks.

That was copypasta from an older thread. Suits the situation pretty good.

File: Zog me dats a good one Boss.gif (75 KB, 1200x1200)

75 KB GIF

>>40635940
Hugo Fugs Maggie when?

FUCKING TALK TO RAYMOND

He saved Hugo back in Jerusalem, and he's a total bro

>>40635946
If the Queen is really going for her plan, I guess she won't stop after one night.

>>40635851
> coax some conversation from the Queen

>>40635946
Changing my vote to Raymond
>>40635851
Let the Queen get bored a little and work our way up to her, we want to set the mood just right and maybe if she gets bored enough she will come talk to us or ask for our presence next to her.

>>40635946
>Raymond
>Bedding the queen

Nigga he's aiming for the Hod bowl

>>40635867
Yeah, and HF just cut off several months' work on and anticipation of that.

The Queen did not look displeased, but she ate in silence.

"Are you well?" you asked, pouring her a little bit of wine.

She smiled. It was a radiant thing. Of all the sisters she and Ioveta looked most alike. It made your heart ache and loins throb. "The travel of the day is starting to catch me," she said, taking the offered wine with a sip.

"How was the road?" you asked. Not long back it had been the domain of Egyptian marauders.

"Safe," she said, "And word has it you are to thank for that."

You shrugged. "I was part of a larger company, serving my liege. If you must thank anyone, send your gratitude to Malik ibn Mujir. He lodges with Count Hugh."

She sniffed. "One of his pet Saracens. My cousin does enjoy the company of that lot. It does him little favour."

You think of Sabeen, of Mohmed and his father Ibrahim. Muslims had done you good service until now.

"Your man Bures spoke of quarrel between the two of you," you said, before plucking a knife-full of pork.

That drew a laugh from Melisende, and her smile grew to one of genuine amusement. "My aged uncle fears any man that casts an eye my way. If we were not under holy vows, he would throw Fulk into the Dead Sea. No, you should not fear a conflict between myself and Hugh. Though his persistent love notes grow tiresome, it is not worth warring over."

She drank a little more heartily, and ate a bit more. She poked you with her fork.

"We should meet later to discuss your own plans. Matters of the future. It is well my Lord of Ramla should have a wife, and give the kingdom heirs."

She spoke of Ascalon in guarded words, but her tone was light. You drank your wine, thinking of the letter on your person.

Sir Raymond had too much to drink, and drew Sir Etienne into an arm wrestle. Your vassal did not manage to best the heir of Tripoli.

"I'll take any man in this room!" he declared, face red from wine.

Melisende looks to you with questioning pout.

> accept the challenge
> nominate a different opponent

>>40636082
>> accept the challenge

Arrr. Fuck it.

All in good fun.

Chug a pint for liquid courage.

>>40636082
> accept the challenge

Empty our wine cup and lets get at it. ALl in good fun.

>>40636082
> accept the challenge For you my Queen.

>>40636082
>>> accept the challenge

>>40636082
>accept the challenge!
The trick is to utilize all of our body's leverage, so it'll come down to INT.

>>40636107
>*tips fedora*

>>40636082
> accept the challenge

We must get her flustered for us.

>>40636082
>> accept the challenge
Can Raymond drop a verse?

>>40636122
We are so going to lose though.

No damascus steel sword to help us.

File: 1373859937042.gif (1.86 MB, 294x233)

1.86 MB GIF

>>40636082
>"We should meet later to discuss your own plans. Matters of the future. It is well my Lord of Ramla should have a wife, and give the kingdom heirs."

IT'S TIME!

> nominate a different opponent

SOLOBRO & HUGO!

> roll 1d100, average of three

Rolled 21 (1d100)

>>40636150

File: DontWorryGuysIGotThisOne.jpg (31 KB, 370x284)

31 KB JPG

Rolled 90 (1d100)

>>40636150

File: ARM WRESTLING.png (285 KB, 840x1200)

285 KB PNG

>>40636109

Rolled 43 (1d100)

>>40636150

Rolled 64 (1d100)

>>40636150

>>40636157
>>40636160
>>40636166


about as average as it gets.

File: CHEAP TRICKING.png (309 KB, 840x1200)

309 KB PNG

>>40636161

>>40636157
>>40636160
>>40636166
coin toss

Might not be too bad. Considering he is quite drunk

>>40636157
>>40636160
>>40636166
51.3

MEDIOCRE!

>>40636183
gee who would have thought using averages of dice pools would be mediocre

>>40636195
Good thing we got that +8WAR last thread

>>40636195
Immortan Joe plz

"I'll take that," you said, pulling up your sleeve and offering him your hand.

Your men cheered you from their seats.

"Give 'em hell!" Tancred shouted.

"Lion! Lion!" the Saracen Aymal cheered. His words were taken up by the other lancers, who sat with your local garrison. "Lion of Ramla! Lion of Ramla!" Your troops joined in. Sabeen rose from her chair, one arm around Hugo's neck, the other around Tancred's.

"The Lion!" she yelled, face flushed from drink, "Lion of Ramla!"

"Well you have the crowd," Raymond said, then burped, "But I will have victory."

He took your hand, and flexed.

Raymond was not weak, but neither were you. The two of you pressed against one another, veins bulging from biceps. But neither of you mastered the other. Raymond grit his teeth.

> roll 1d100, average of three