But you looked past that Antioch procession to a pair of men behind them. Sour faced and sweating Orlando ran fingers across his scarred lip, as Sir Hector leaned back in the shadows. Both your brother's men, come from Antioch with the representatives. Your heart skipped a beat at the sight of handsome and quiet Hector, and you feared a moment, for he was no true knight and if his falsehood were discovered he'd be in far worse a state than your bastard-brother Hugo.

Still though, the young Jew set forward with a small grin at the sight of you, eyes coming to light, ignoring whatever mutterings were consuming his frail, blond friend. You only nodded coolly in reply. A young lady could not show excessive favour at court lest rumours start.

> approach Hugh and the Antioch delegation
> approach Orlando and Hector
> remain back, and allow someone to approach you

>>46210187
Happy to see you back faggot.

>>46210205
> remain back, and allow someone to approach you

Welcome back Sempai!

>>46210205
>> approach Hugh and the Antioch delegation
Happy to see ya running.

>>46210205
> remain back, and allow someone to approach you


Happy to see you back HF

>>46210205
> approach Hugh and the Antioch delegation

Welcome back, Commander. XCOM was never the same without you.

>>46210205
> approach Hugh and the Antioch delegation

>>46210205
>> approach Hugh and the Antioch delegation

Our brother's liege lord.

We must approach to offer the proper respects.

XCOM Ackbar, Commander

Did not know this was on today

>>46210205
>> approach Hugh and the Antioch delegation
Hughest lord must be greeted

>>46210205
Holy shit welcome back HF! We missed you!

>Approach Hugh

Guys. Remember Portia our handmaiden is a spy.

Okay so whats the plan of attack people? who do we trust and who do we know are our enemies?

>>46210427
I am willing to trust Elias to be untrustful. But i think he may speak honestly about Portia.

It seems to me that most people would like Hugo to go free. They just kinda need/want something out of it.

>>46210458
>>46210427
Wouldn't it be a "the enemy of my friend is not my enemy" deal?

>>46210458
Our brother's allies would probably lend their voices to Hugo's aid.

Also Elias has agreed to vouch for him so we should be good.

>>46210515
In return for a bit of more freedom for his father.

Also i highly suspect he wants the M

>>46210551
I'm amendable to the first one, still on the fence about the 2nd. And yes, I think Matty has charmed him abit but exactly how much of that is love or just simple skirt chasing, not too sure yet. If he does fall for matty properly, that'll be fucking interesting and complicated.

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>>46210551
>Elias
>Mathilde
>Wilhelm & Hugo's face when

also remember Hugo has enemies of his own specifically Greek rapists and Elias

Also, we should not forget that the King has asked for help to purchase a hawk for his son.

>>46210649
Yeah and it was suggested we should bring Portia along who is a falconeer, but also been informed a spy. I smell a trap when we go to get that bird.

It is only proper that you first approach your brother's lord, to congratulate him on his recent marriage if nothing else.

With Bayard a step behind you, you step toward the huddle. The Antioch delegation steps aside to give you room enough to curtsy to the Count. Hugh returned it with a slight hinged bow from the hips.

"My lady," he said, "May I introduce you to my wife?" He gestured to his young bride, who could not have been a year older than yourself. She bowed slight, blushing hard.

"Congratulations," you said, "You are the sister of Roger of Sicily?"

"Daughter," she replied in a thick Sicilian tone. She looked away. "Bastard daughter."

"Descended from the finest of Italian families," Hugh interjected, squeezing her hand for encouragement, "Cousin by her mother to Matilda of Tuscany, god rest her soul."

The woman for whom your father had named you, a powerful woman of the Italians who had fought emperors and courted popes. Dead some ten years or more, but well remembered.

"And these gentlemen with you?" you turned on your heel to consider the trio of Antioch, tilting your head upward to get a better look. They exchanged a look between them before turning to you.

"Sir Morris, Sir Edmund and Father Pippin, all in service to the Patriarch of Antioch," Hugh said, gesturing to each in turn, "Might I introduce Mathilde, sister to Lord Wilhelm."

>>46210635
Shut it, you goddamn frog. Individual family members can each have people they like and dislike. For instance, Hodierna is Matty's enemy, whereas she is a friend to Hugo and Wilhelm. It won't do to intentionally make enemies of people we could easily make friends out of.

"A pleasure," Father Pippin offered his ring for you to kiss, which you did dutifully. The others took your hand and kissed the back of it with a bow. Antioch had good manners if nothing else.

"We've heard of your beauty even in the north," Sir Edmund said, and you heard a thread of English in his voice.

"And your charm," Sir Morris said, looking at his companion. Likewise his voice had an English tone Two posturing dogs. Father Pippin seemed as annoyed by the display as you were.

"And I suppose you have come here on the same business that we have," Pippin said, "The blackguard Raymond and his dog, the bastard boy. A pair of villains for true. We mean to see justice done to the both of them, and the honour of our lady restored."

You felt a hot flush of anger at the insult leveled at your brother, but bit the inside of your cheek to check the angry word that threatened to spit from your tongue.

> keep silent
> defend your brother

>>46210749
> defend your brother

The only thing our brother is guilty of being is a heroic fool.

How dare they flatter us one moment and insult our family the next.

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>>46210749
>defend your brother

>>46210740
my point exactly you fool

>>46210749
his only crime is being a man willing to defend a child against misdeeds others would Idly allow
> defend your brother

>>46210749
>> defend your brother
Bastard he may be but he wouldn't do this without reason.

>>46210749
>> defend your brother

But be careful not to fling insults towards those of the delegation infront of us.

Measured defence of our brother and no attacking verbally.

>>46210749
>> keep silent
pfft, pleb pls

>>46210749
> defend your brother

List all of Hugo's deficiencies (perceived and real) until they get uncomfortable before stopping to say something along the lines of "but he's my idiot brother" and spout some line from the Bible about "forgiveness for trespasses" and etc etc

>>46210827
Did we bring our riding crop to court today?
>Y / N

>>46210749
>> defend your brother

Make sure to keep all our heat in check. Just enough to ice the two. No dishonour to lord hugh or our brother.

>I'm surrounded by shonenry
Time to darkness, my old friend

>>46211087
wut

>>46210972
crap this be cool and collected not raging

>>46210972
Ice-cold Matty?

Ice-cold Matty.

>>46211125
No, that's a meme Historical Fiction is trying to spread. In reality, we're a very friendly person.

>>46211187
lies and slander Matty a bitch!

>>46211217
You a bitch for wanting Matty to be a bitch with your projecting.

>>46211217
Matty is gonna burn a bitch.

>>46210943
>Y

>>46211257
I'm pretty sure that Matty was putting a dampener on her emotions while forcing herself to witness Rosalie's inferno because she felt responsible.

You forced yourself to smile, but perhaps a glitter in your eyes betrayed your anger.

"My brother is many things," you said, "A fool, a bastard, a hotspur, occasionally unchaste. Mostly he is a hero. A boy who rode valiantly with Fulk of Anjou, he was named champion of the feast day tourney of St Peter and St Paul, he has defended the innocent from the vicious, be they Saracen or Christian. My brother, good sirs, is no villain." You kept your smile for each of them, though you grit your back teeth as you did so. But you could not hold back one little bur, and snap out, "Perhaps Jerusalem has grown so accustomed to villainy it does not recognise a hero when he appears."

It gave the knights pause, an uncertain flicker passing between them, and put a considerate look on Father Pippin's face. He rolled your words about him almost literally in, tongue rolling over his teeth and bulging his cheeks as he formulated a reply

The priest eventually returned the smile with an inclination of his head.

"Whatever his motives, the man is a lawbreaker," he said, "Perhaps it is as you say, and we have a knight of Arthur's court amongst us. Perhaps his motives are as pure as Galahad. But this is a kingdom of laws, and unbridled chivalry is as harmful as naked villainy." The priest had a smile you didn't like, glittering little beetles under a heavy brow that moved from you to Count Hugh.

> argue further with the priest
> ask Hugh his opinion
> move on
> write-in

>>46211299

I thought she actually enjoyed it.

After almost dying to her machinations, she wanted to watch the bitch burn.

>>46211299
Except she deserved that. Bitch could have come to anyone and confessed but she didn't.

>>46211319
>> ask Hugh his opinion

And now they have all the petty arguments needed!

>>46211319
>> move on

>>46211319
> move on

Leave with a huff. Our brother is a hero and we will not listen to their venom any longer.

>>46211319
> move on

>>46211319

>> write-in
"Indeed. And in that, I shall defer to My Queen's judgement and pray for his deliverance."
>> move on

Last word, move on. We do not need to involve Lord Hugh in this and we do not need to make a scene.

>>46211319
> move on

The pompous twit of a priest has set a trap.

Onto other topics such as the realm readiness for the conquest of Ascalon.

>>46211319
> move on

''I do suppose some would know the harm of naked villiany being villains themselves''

okay thoughts on the legal/political trap and how do we counter it?

>>46211653
Find a way to prove it was a rescue and not a kidnapping.

>>46211653
>RonPaul.jpg

>>46211653

We would need to show probably cause as to why the romans would want the girl.

And in this, we can bring in lord gerard to tell what happened in Sidon.

The court can infer the rest.

"Indeed," you said, "We shall leave such matters for the high court, and my queen, to judge. Until the verdict is reached I bid you a good day." You give the Antioch party a slight curtsy, then turn to do the same for Count Hugh. He grins, clasps your shoulder and sends you on with a kiss on the brow.

"Your brother is lucky to have such a loyal sister," he said, his voice caught with a little sadness as he let you go.

"What else do you have in the world but family?" you reply as you move on, Count Hugh's attention soon caught by men from Sidon.

/you turned to come face to face with Orlando's nervous visage. With them now was tall, broad shouldered Elias, his tone convivial as he spoke with Orlando, squeezing his shoulder with a large hand.

"Don't fret so much man, have a drink and relax. All will be well," the Count of Maine was saying, his eyes turned to you, drew you in, his smile growing, "And here comes your deliverer, yours and the boy in the dungeon cell. Well met Mathilde," he raised his horn of wine to you.

"My lady," Orlando said. Hector just watched from behind Orlando, eyes on you and unwavering. Had he looked away from you in all this time? It was not lost on Bayard, who leaned toward the Jewish man in an unfriendly way.

"Down boy," you said, slapping Bayard's arm with your fingers. The man-at-arms had the grace to look a little chagrined.

"Drink with us," Elias said, offering you his horn. As he spoke another man approached. A slight young Greek with down turned eyed. He smiled for you, but his attention went to Elias and Orlando.

"This is all very exciting isn't it?" he said, "Like something out of a story book. A bold knight rescues a fair princess from the clutches of a conniving priest. It's very Frankish, very Latin."

"Mathilde, meet my friend Manuel," he said, "Manuel, meet Mathilde."

It was not much as introductions went. Manuel gave a smile and a nod.

> introduce yourself more properly
> ignore the Roman

>>46211837
> introduce yourself more properly

Pretty sure that is a prince. Besides, our mother did teach us to have manners.

>>46211837
>> introduce yourself more properly

wait is this the prince?

>>46211837
>> introduce yourself more properly

Decorum. Allow him to kiss your hand.

>>46211918
No but i think he is A prince.

>>46211935
well he's either a prince or the damn false empreor

>>46211958

He won't be here. Too far in enemy territory.

>>46211837
> introduce yourself more properly

Playing the court intrigue game requires Matty being nice.

>>46212046
Matty can be nice when she has to.

Is this now we flirt with Elias ?

>>46212086

Hector might attack him.

So no. We do that courtly dance of words thingie.

> "Your brother is lucky to have such a loyal sister," he said, his voice caught with a little sadness as he let you go."

Uhhh... my bad news senses are tingling unless it's just Hugh wishing he had tied Willy's willy to Hugh's sister.

"Count Elias is a casual man, we must forgive him," you said, looking to this Manuel more formally, "I am Mathilde, daughter of Sir Wilhelm of Koblenz and sister to Lord Wilhelm of Ramla, betrothed to Elinard of Galilee." You place a hand to your heart as you give a slight curtsy.

He smiled, flashing white teeth between his beard. "I am Manuel Komnenos," he said. That was enough to send an electric jolt down your spine. He was a son of the Roman emperor, an Imperial prince. He took your offered hand and kissed the soft flesh of your palm. "It is an honour to make your acquaintance Mathilde."

"The honour is mind your highness," you reply.

"Manuel," he said, "You may call me Manuel, as my friends do."

"Are we friends?" you asked.

"I see no reason why we would not be friends," he said.

He stepped back, releasing you, to stand with Elias. He took an offered wine cup with a pleasant smile and polite little thank you to the servant, though he sipped only a little.

"Mathilde," Orlando took your attention this time, voice frayed and face sweltering even in this cooler season, "You must tell your brother how sorry I am. None of this was my plan. Hugo went off alone with that mad man Raymond. I did what I could once they were gone, but we were near executed ourselves. You have to understand, I did everything I could."

> ignore Orlando
> reassure Orlando
> write-in

>>46212149
doing "everything you could" tends to be very little, doesn't it?

>>46212149
> ignore Orlando

Lets take the charm up a notch. Although do say something "Speak to my brother about such things" or something to that effect.

>>46212149
>> reassure Orlando

''Hugo does as Hugo pleases if he wished to save one child's soul he would do so even if the whole world was against him''

Fucking Swordsaint route

>>46212149
>> write-in
"It is not your fault, Orlando. If my brother did decide on a course of action, almost nothing could have swayed him if he believed his actions were just."

>> reassure Orlando

"Fret not, I have not been idle. Hugo will be free. Though we will probably owe a few more favours."

>>46212149
> Write in

"Hugo tends towards stubborness. Not your fault but however Wilhelm reacts is between you and him once we return to home with Hugo."

I say charm the prince. We could either try see if we could get some support or at least learn something more about them

"Very few men can keep Hugo from doing what he thinks is the right thing," you said, "And I'm sure my brother doesn't blame you, but you should speak on such matters with my brother and not me."

What you said did little to alay Orlando's frentic guilt, so you patted his arm. "All will be well, I've all but secured Hugo's release, we've only to make good on some favours in turn."

"My lady," Orlando swallowed the lump in his throat, "I did not mean Hugo's imprisonment, though that plagues me too. Antioch has withdrawn its support for Wil's invasion. They won't be sending anyone to Ascalon. Not unless Hugo is punished to the fullness of the law. My lady, they want Hugo's head, and will ruin all your brother's planning if they do not get it."

That was bad news. Worse, it was completely awful news. But you were no soldier, and did not know how to process it. What the lose of Antioch might mean for Wil's campaign.

> I'll deal with it
> say nothing

I figure this trial is going to largely come down to witness testimony. HF, does Cross-Examination exist in this court?

>>46212477
> I'll deal with it

>>46212477

>Write-in
"Help me understand. How important is Anitoch to the campaign?"

>>46212477
> I'll deal with it

Or atleast try.

>>46212477
>I'll deal with it.
>From what I hear, the Queen's sister can't even control Antioch properly.

>>46212477
> I'll deal with it

well this is a problem

>>46212536
they promised siege engines, supplies and men

>>46212559

Matty doesn't know that yet though. Its an IC question.

>>46212592
Wilhelm maybe shared it with her. He had ample opportunity to do so.

>>46212623
Heck, its right there in the post. She doesn't understand it.

>>46212644
Because she's not a strategist.

You took a steadying breath.

"I shall deal with it," you said, petting his arm, "Do not fret so much, you'll go grey before your time and end up a lifelong bachelor. Antioch cannot be so important that they are irreplaceable."

"Antioch is men, supplies, engines of war," Orlando said, "A good quarter of the promised material was to come from there. It isn't the manpower so much as the ships, the foodstuffs and the lumber. We'll miss the soldiers, but we'll miss the food and water much more sorely."

"I shall deal with it Orlando," you said, "It would do well for you if you at least appeared more confident in the abilities of my family, instead of sweating nervously for the world to see." You couldn't keep all of the contempt from your voice, but did try to soften it as best you could.

"As you say my lady," he took a breath, but still he was a miserable sight.

You took one yourself as you turned back to face Elias and Manuel, clapping your hands together. "My lords this really is an exciting occasion, everything is moving so quickly," you said.

Elias leaned forward. "It would seem so," he said, "Perhaps I can be of service with this latest problem."

"Perhaps he means I can help," Manuel said, "Though I'm not sure if he should be speaking so freely for me. As you said, our friend here is a distressingly casual man."

Elias tugged at his earlobe. "I'm moved to selflessness on seeing a woman in trouble, aren't you?"

"Selflessly donating other people's money, ever the Frank," Manuel turned back to you, "If you are in need of assistance, come find me later and we might discuss terms. In the mean time I am required elsewhere." He gave a click of his heels before walking away, to speak with the Patriarch of Jerusalem who walked with feminine escort from the Church of St Anne.

"The trial begins in a handful of hours," Elias said, "Perhaps we could talk somewhere private, where you might instruct me in your brother's defense. I am his advocate in this."

> yes
> no

>>46212802
>> yes

Goddammit Orlando. You were too loud.

>>46212802
>I have a feeling this will come down to the testimonies of who all were there at the time. I'm sorry, but I don't think an unrelated party will do much good.

Crap Im fairly certain Elias has taken the side of the Greeks in this trap

its turning into a perfect storm for Hugo

>>46212888
>I am his advocate in this."
>Elias representing Hugo in a trial of life and death

>>46212802
>> yes

>>46212802
> no

>IT'S A TRAP.jpg

>>46212802
>> no

>>46212943
>>46212888
I dont think he will let his dislike get in the way of his plans and promise. He is not that stupid. Ofcourse that doesnt mean we should trust him blindly
>>46212802
> yes

>>46212978
says who? him?

we have no gurantee

>>46212802
>I think you're misunderstanding something. I am not here to make sure my brother is found not guilty of this crime, I'm here to ensure that he can tell his side of the story, and hearing other stories that could prove his claims. If he is found guilty, he is found guilty.

>>46212992
He wants his father to be free and backstabbing Hugo would be counterproductive.

>>46212992
Part of his stated goal is to let his father and him fight at the siege. A won war is much better for the both of them, rather than a lost one.

Also, too much lost support means they will be in that much danger. They're not going to put themselves at that much risk.

>>46213013
The fuck are you on about ?

>>46212802
>> yes

>>46212978
he has no power base here any more. He would do well by selling Hugo to the Greeks in exchange for a bag of gold and a new court. He's a snake.

>>46213049
It's Mathilde's IC stance on Hugo when it comes to him committing crimes. He won't want to run from punishment, and she admires that.

Okay, now I'm confused. What makes you all think Hugo's trial has anything to do with the Greeks, or that they care about Hugo in anyway?

>>46213080
Which would be mean leaving his father to rot. Not even Elias would do that.

>>46213093

Are you high.

The full punishment for this crime is death.

Matty is not going to just let her brother, bastard or not, just die.

Why the hell do you think shes scurrying around.

>>46213116

Just take the Yes/No stuff HF, too much shadowrunnings.

>>46213116
Because of what Hugo told us that spurred him into escorting the princess to Jerusalem, the Komnenoses shiftily talking about taking advantage of Antioch.

>>46213142
Because we're here to ensure that he gets punished for being a horse thief, and that Justice is meted out.

>>46212802
> yes
my escort will join us of course.

>>46212802
> no, I would do better to run over what my brother has to say. Or Raymond. Or Constance.

Recount off this post:

> yes, go talk to Elias in private
> no, do not

>>46213315
>yes, go talk to Elias in private

>>46213315
>> yes, go talk to Elias in private

>>46213315
> yes, go talk to Elias in private

>>46213315
> no, do not

>>46213315
>> yes, go talk to Elias in private

>>46213315
> yes, go talk to Elias in private
With our bodyguard

>>46213499
But he is gonna ruin all the flirting!

>>46213548
but anon he was part of the flirting last time remember!

>>46213643
Good point. If he tries to press us on joining the private talk, we should reprimand him by saying he has a wife.

>>46213703
he does?

>>46213742
That's like, the #1 thing he complains about now, #2 being his eye.

>>46213548
He'll also ruin all the premarital sexing

>>46213777
Actually i think #2 is Mathilde's company of men.
>>46213779
But we are a Koblenz, premarital sexing is what our family is all about!

>>46213819
not the women

"Very well," you say, and offer him your arm, but you ensure Bayard follows. He leads you to a chamber kept empty, a small little chamber kept with stools for sitting and a small wash basin. Elias closed the door behind Bayard and went to scrub his face in that basin, then took up an accompanying pitcher, poured himself a cup of cool clear water.

When he turned back he leaned against the wall, while you took one of the stools, legs together and back straight.

"You handle yourself well at court," he said, "I'm impressed by you, honestly. Most girls I meet can't speak on more than weaving with any boldness or authority."

"I am here to talk about my brother, not to be complimented," you said, keeping up your reserve and taking some comfort in Bayard's presence. Elias was a handsome man to find yourself alone with.

Elias clicked is fingers. "That's it exactly, you never waver," he said, then took a drink. "In truth I'm no friend to either of your brothers, but I think you know this already. Lord Wilhelm has ruined my father, and the other one...but even so base a creature as myself can be moved. You have moved me Mathilde, to take up a cause that isn't my own." He eyed you beneath his brow, like a wounded beast.

You felt a slight flush, but steady yourself. "Again, we are here to speak on the matter of my brother. Can we stick to the subject?"

He gave a slight hiss, drawing back, but it was not angry, or even injured. The man smiled as if you had kissed his cheek.

"On that we can only argue the goodness of his character," he said, "And on his motives. His crime is obvious, in the harshest court we'd have no argument, but the boy is well liked. I mean to do as you did with the Antioch delegates. Turn him into a hero, a knight ridden forth from a story book. A paladin of Charlemagne come to deliver us in a perilous time."

>>46213835
Our mother begs to different,

"You may alienate Antioch further," you said, "If you make them the villains of your story."

Elias shrugged. "Is the support of Antioch worth your brother's life?"

"Why not the Romans?" you asked, "That might bring them closer to us, if we show my brother as rescuing a virgin girl from predacious foreigners."

He thumbed his ear, a slight grin. "Not a bad idea, but if Antioch is strained, the Empire stands on a hair. Alienate them and things could go truly sour and make a hell out of the holy land. There are sensitivities in the Greek empire we must be careful to avoid provoking." He leaned back. "The truth is Antioch is bluffing. They will not part ways with Jerusalem least the Greeks swallow them whole. Alice is blood to the Queen, and she might huff and puff, but this injury can be healed. The Romans, I'm not so certain of."

He spoke sense, you thought.

> accept his idea
> give him suggestions (write-in)

>>46213315
>>46212490
Could you please answer the question?

>>46213856
>but you ensure Bayard follows.
No we don't! Only one guy got behind that with plenty of opposition.

>>46213861
>Mother
>Koblenz

but thats wrong

>>46213895
> give him suggestions (write-in)

I say put it on the Antioch. It wont be directly tied to the Greeks and will leave Antioch mostly blameless.

>>46213977
Fuck i meant. Put it on the Patriach of Antioch.

>>46213895
> give him suggestions (write-in)

what about raymond the companion?

>>46213895
>Hmm, are the Romans really going to get mad at us for however this trial turns out? It could just as well turn into a sore spot for us to use against them in the future.

>>46212490
>I figure this trial is going to largely come down to witness testimony. HF, does Cross-Examination exist in this court?
Not really. I'm not even sure what you mean by witness testimony, except possibly character witnesses or the like, since most of the witnesses to the crime would have only seen a naked and clear abduction committed by the pair.

Hugo and Raymond will get a chance to speak for themselves and argue their motives. Their accusers will do the same. And then the high court can argue with one another before they come to a verdict. It isn't a modern court of law where evidence is carefully compiled and presented and the jury is impartial.

>>46213977
>>46214017
We can leave pretty much both the Greeks and Antioch blameless. Giving them a lifeline and they may take it.

>>46214049
>I'm not even sure what you mean by witness testimony
So why are you burdening yourself with writing a trial scene?

>>46214049
I think he means cross examination HF

>>46214049
>since most of the witnesses to the crime would have only seen a naked and clear abduction committed by the pair.
You mean the incompetent guards and caretakers that just LET Hugo waltz right in and escort the princess out by hand?

>>46214103
>>46214092
Yes, of course an advocate can ask witnesses, accusers and accused questions. Just don't go into it thinking its a modern day court.

Focus on the patriarch but use the Greeks if it is not viable

"Why not make the villain the Patriarch of Antioch?" you asked, "I've heard his reputation isn't exactly spotless. I have heard a little about him, and his conspiracies against Princess Alice."

Elias rubbed his jaw as he thought about that. "We could attack Domfront," he said, "But he's a powerful, clever man. I'd be very hesitant to make him a personal enemy, and I mean that in the most self-interested way possible. He has a way of ridding himself of enemies, even well positioned ones. The man has few hesitations when it comes to getting what he wants. Bones already litter the path behind him."

You noticed then that Elias spoke with a note of fear. He was indeed truly scared of the Patriarch. It was almost charming to see his self-confidence rattled, but also a little worrying. This man didn't frighten easily.

> insist on the Patriarch
> let it go

>tfw I notice HF can't make a single update without implying someone wants to fuck

>>46214340
> insist on the Patriarch

>>46214341
Its the holy land.

>>46214340
> insist on the Patriarch

>>46214361
And Jesus was all about love.

>>46214341
And here I thought I was toning it down.

>>46214306
> let it go
Hugo didn't really tell us much about the Patriarch, more about the Romans. We could just paint this as Alice having an ensemble of unreliable people she surrounds herself with, who can't be trusted.

>>46214340
>> let it go

Sounds fucking dangerous.

>>46214406
But he did. He told us everything about his journey when we talked to him. Our story needs a villain

>>46214423
And messing with the Romans isnt ?

>>46214340

> insist on the Patriarch

>>46214341
to be fair we are playing as an attractive young woman right now

>>46214443
who is also in her horny teenage years

>>46214440
>Our story needs a villain
And the villain is the young princess's incompetent mother in her rickety castle.

>>46214340
>> insist on the Patriarch

I thinks its time to pay Portia a visit

we torture the crap out of her to get the dirty on him

>>46214477
But that would be attacking Antioch which we cant really afford.
>>46214491
Good idea. Portia is spying on us for the Patriach.

>>46214340
> let it go

>>46214506
It would also be calling Alice's judgment into question, and maybe install a new governor at her station.

>>46214491
We could get information out of Portia which we could use.

>>46214542
It will split the Kingdom in two. And no, that wont happen. We will not be able to replace Alice as regent to her own daughter.

>>46214547
she a spy torture will likely be the only way and since her master is roman it is likely tied to the ecumenical patriarchs or even the empreor god forbid

>>46214340
>> let it go

>>46214340
> insist on the Patriarch

take >>46214491 Idea and run with it

Are we absolutely sure shes a spy for him?

>>46214736
Only one way to find out.

>>46214736
a stab in the dark at this point is better than nothing and hey there's only one way we're going to find out

>>46214761
But thats assuming its correct.

Also theres the other routes we could go by, like the one elias suggested.

>>46214491
I don't think we can get away with just torturing some girl out of nowhere

>>46214340
> let it go

>>46214810
We wouldnt walk straight up to her and then torture the crap out of her, also she us our handmaiden and if we do find anything to link her to the Patriach we are well within our right to do so.

>>46214791
and make ourselves the enemy of a very dangerous without being able to dispose of him swiftly?

I'll pass

>>46214810
this is why only a select few will be involved or know that we are doing this

>>46214869
Feel free to call me an idiot but I forgot why she's even under suspicion of being a spy

>>46214888
Is this not potentially the same thing?

We're making a personal enemy. A dangerous one.

Also what if we're wrong and we just tortured some noble girl.

>>46214904
Elias told us.

>>46214904
Elias told us she was a greek spy.

"Please tell me you aren't scared of an old priest," you said, putting a hand upon Elias' thigh. He looked down at you. You looked up at him with a sly grin. "I think the Patriarch is the perfect candidate, and if that makes us his enemies, well, the patriarch might find that we are as dangerous as he is."

It brought a rueful grin to his face, and he brushed his ginger hair back as he took a long look at you.

"Call me a fool for blue eyes," he said.

You crossed your calves and plucked lint from your dress. "And of course we can have Portia tortured to corroborate that," you said.

Elias frowned. "You told me she was a Roman spy," you said.

"Yes, a Roman spy. She's nothing to do with Domfront," he replied.

"How can you be so sure?"

"Because she works for my friend Manuel, he told me as much when last we had dinner together," he explained.

Oh, well you supposed that had been a large assumption to make.

"You are a ruthless little thing though, aren't you?" he said, hands on his hips and grinning big, "Not even on half a whisper and you reach for the thumb screws."

"I protect my family, Elias, remember that," you replied.

He laughed, head thrown back and roaring. "God's sake Matty, that's an understatement!" He wiped the mirth from his eyes.

"So we have our case. I'll paint a villain of Domfront to win your brother his freedom, and after that come what may," he said.

"What of Sir Raymond?" you asked.

"Raymond? Oh that man can take care of himself, but I think with our strategy he should be freed alongside your brother, if we've the support we need."

You were certain you had the numbers. "Then it's a snap," you said, and clicked your fingers for emphasis.

Elias rubbed his chin again, considering you long. Long enough to make you feel a flush in your cheek and note Bayard lean forward.

>>46214915
She is not a noblegirl and no matter what we do we will make enemies, either the patriach, the emperor or Antioch.

And i find the Patriach to the be the least dangerous and have the least political damage to the kingdom.

>the "torture is an effective means to gain reliable information" meme still hasn't died

>>46214915
one that can only suspect and not know that we are involved until we can dispose of him is different to one who actively knows we are his opponent

also there is nothing saying Portia is a noble girl and not some trained servant

"What about a kiss for luck?" he asked, "I'm risking my life in this now." He leaned in close, long grin filling your vision. You felt a start in your chest, a hard thump as a hot fluster went through you. Suddenly the stool you sat upon felt very warm, overly warm, that if you weren't so poised you might squirm.

> very well
> not on your life

>>46214949
We're sort of half and half on insisting on the Patriarch. We could just as well insist on Manuel.

>>46214973
> not on your life
I think less of you each time you try to extort such things with me with your favors

>>46214973
> not on your life

"You can have three when my brother walks free"

Payment after the job is done.

>>46214973
>> not on your life
But mayhap you'd be rewarded with one if you get my brother off?

>>46214949
>"Because she works for my friend Manuel, he told me as much when last we had dinner together,"

Sunuva bitch

>>46214973
> not on your life

pat his cheek

>>46214997
>three
what

>>46214973
>Actually, how close are you with Manuel?

>>46215018
you heard him

>>46214988
Going after the Emperor's son is a terrible idea.

>>46215048
Everything's a terrible idea. However, Manuel is more closely linked to our brother's case.

>>46215018
It is a proper reward for saving our brother.

>>46214973
>> not on your life
Pat his cheek, say it'll be his after the trial

>>46215078
just one is enough. preferable zero.

>>46215071
No he is not. Wrong Prince.

>>46215094
Ah, you are correct. But still, should we not go after Alexios Komnenos instead of the Patriarch who we've only heard rumors about?

>>46215136
It would only ruin the relations between the empire and jerusalem even further.

You arch up so that your lips might almost brush his, feel the soft breath of his on your skin and say-

"Not likely," you gave his cheek a soft pat, and lower yourself back to sitting with a little smile, "But mayhap, if you deliver my brother."

He straightened up to the sound of Bayard snickering, and shot the man-at-arms a somewhat annoyed look, but then he adjusted his cote, looked down again at you and winked.

"It's as good as done," he said, stepping past and back out into the palace. Leaving you and Bayard alone in the little chamber.

Bayard coughed. "Maybe its not my place to say-" he said.

"Say it anyway," you replied.

Bayard gave you brotherly smile. "You're doing a good job Matty, don't let anyone tell you different."

Then he offered you his arm and lead you back out into the palace as well.
-
Taking a quick break. When we get back we'll do the trial.

Damn i think Matty is making Elias hot and bothered. He may believe he has finally found a woman that is somewhat his equal.

>>46215164
You are forgetting that the Venetians are allied to our brother as well. Making common cause with the known pirate, Theodore Komnenos, would be unfavorable.

Dammit we need to know more about the Patriarch and his dirty deeds

wat do?

>>46215189
inb4 elias gets so frustrated he rapes matty

>>46215202
We are with Genoa, not Venice.

>>46215218
Everything will be brought to light in the Court of Jerusalem. However, we need to run over what our brother's actions were and his intentions to strike a chord with our audience.

>>46215242
Okay, so the Italians? Milanese? Sicilians?

>>46215265
Sicilians are with us, yes.

>>46215196
He's not used to such a challenge

Find it hilarious that we have yet to run into Iovetta.

>>46215380
I find it hilarious that the only thing preventing it was the Queen turning into a megacunt for no reason at all.

>>46215380
Goddamit we keep trying but its always fixing Hugos shit

Hugo combat when?

>>46215406
Except for the fact we fucked every female member of the royal family who is of age except for iovetta. You know the one we are actually engaged to.

>>46215423
Ascalon

Goddamit it's turning into the namek of CQ

>>46215423
When his arm heals from the train that ran over it.

>>46215447
Mathilde didn't do that.

>>46215447
still mad that you guys fucked things up with Melisandre on purpose

>>46215515
I'm glad we did it.

>>46215523
WE COULDA BEEN KINGS AND SHIET

>>46215561
WE WILL BE KINGS! KINGS OF OUR OWN KINGDOM! WIITH HOOKERS AND BLACKJACK!!

Alexandria get Hype!

>>46215561
The highest thing we would be is either a count or a prince-consort. I'm aiming for Duke of Egypt.

>>46215447
>>46215406
I was more refering to Mathilde meeting Iovtta.

Also the Queen did it because of jealousy.

>>46215588
I dont think we will be able to take over all of Eqypt let alone have enough men to keep it. We will most likely take everything they have in the Levant and parts of Sinai.

>>46215902
Speaking of which, anyone want to try the Woodpecker Attack strategy with Ascalon?

>>46215902
Solomons homeland would surely lend us a hand and be free of the menace of egypt

The lords of Jerusalem assembled in the great hall of Queen Melisende. Jaffa sat with Sidon, across from Oultrejordan and Caesarea. Representatives of Edessa and Antioch sat side by side. Ramla waited with the Count of Maine and Tripoli, arrived only in the last few hours. With them as well was an interloper, a swarthy Komnenos. The broad form of the Constable of Jerusalem, the prince of Galilee, filled a seat beneath the place reserved for royalty. All the other lords, lesser in stature, filled the seats between them, land owners and glorified knights given a right to speak, second sons and brothers to lords with no direct land of their own.

Templar and Hospitaller enjoyed their own company far in the back, standing and watching either side of the aged patriarch of Jerusalem.

The princesses sat poised, golden hair hidden behind white silk, faces stone. Young Ioveta, who had just recently been intended for holy vows, looked as much a woman of the court as her sisters. She sat on the left. Her elder sister, Hodierna, sat on the right.

Between them sat the Queen, her face a mask of white marble. Her dress the colours of Jerusalem, her brow crowned and between her breasts the keys of the realm.

Three beautiful women that commanded every eye in attendance.

At Melisende's feet was a serious little boy, trying to match his mother's serene gaze, trying not to fidget at the collar of his doublet. He wore a little sword, little more than a dagger. This was a serious occasion. Beside that young boy was a young girl, capped in blonde curls, wearing a dress that did not quite fit her anymore. The cousin to the boy, and the reason this gathering.

>>46215953
Might be a bit too late for us to call for them.

The prisoners were brought forth. Hugo and Raymond, both chained at the wrists, wearing as fine a garb as could be provided for them. Raymond looked about like he was being granted some special performance, a child dazzled by carnival lights. Hugo looked down, expression drawn, eyes sober.

It was a mighty host that looked down upon them.

The priest of Antioch stood, stepped forward, as the Count of Maine did likewise.

It was Melisende that spoke first.

"We are gathered here this day to judge a serious crime. Abduction of a royal princess, my own blood and heir to the throne of Antioch." Melisende allowed those words to stretch out before them. This was a serious charge. High Treason. "The two held responsible are those standing before us. Raymond, son of Pons, heir to Tripoli. Hugo, brother to Wilhelm, squire. They are accused by my sister, Alice of Antioch, of abducting her daughter with the intention of holding her to ransom, to extort influence over Antioch. How do you plead?"

Elias of Maine cleared his throat, stepping forward with a smile. "Not guilty, your highness."

There was a little muttering at that, and cynical eyes watched it unfold.

"The defense?" Melisende asked, "Surely you cannot prove these men did not abduct my neice, Constance of Antioch."

"Indeed, we don't dispute that, we only dispute the motive," to this Elias turned to the assembly, "My friends, these two men are not villains, they are heroes. They have rescued our beloved princess from the clutches of a cruel and terrible schemer and from the rule of an incompetent guardian. I shall argue, and prove, that these men acted with the most Christian of intentions. To spare a just the ignominy of a forced marriage, to lose her chastity in the most vile of ways, and to keep Antioch from being pried from us and placed into the hands of a foreigner. No less bringing to light a conspiracy between the Patriarch of Antioch and the Count of Toulouse to rob Jerusalem of its rightful vassal."

Whatever else that did, it caught the interest of the caught. All sat forward to listen. Mathilde most keenly, with her Pons, who wet dry lips for nervousness over his son.

Elias looked to the priest of Antioch, Father Pippin, who was smiling oddly at the count of Maine. What plans did they have?

> roll 1d100 best of three

>>46216004
>and between her breasts the keys of the realm.
The fuck, HF?

Rolled 17 (1d100)

>>46216039
c'mon elias

Rolled 10 (1d100)

>>46216039

Rolled 64 (1d100)

>>46216039

inb4 all our work is undone by shit rolls

>>46216085
Good god. Atleast it didnt kill us outright.

>>46216039
All of this is going to come down to a dice roll?

Rolled 49 (1d100)

>>46216085
well at least its not the other two

>>46216108
Yeah. We placed all our pieces and gathered what support we can in order to give us the best modifers.

>>46216124
I wonder what Elias' stats are. High charisma I imagine.

>>46216153
90+ if i remember correctly.

>>46216124
But that's stupid! We haven't even compared Raymond's deeds to Hugo's yet.

>>46216108
Essentially this: >>46216124
>>46216153
Elias has very high charisma. As good as Wil's at Hugh's trial.

>>46216153
Higher than Wilhelm unmodified. Probably has one or two items to boost it past willys though least I hope so.

>>46216178
But we haven't gotten to do anything attorney-like. Did you really plan to have someone come steal our thunder this entire time?

>>46216202
What on earth made you think we would do that ?

That was the whole point of getting Elias on our side. He would be our attorney. Did you honestly think that a lords teenaged sister would actually do that ?

>>46216233
It's why we worked so hard the night before. Plus, I thought HF would try to make a critical part of his quest fun and engaging, but it seems I was wrong.

>>46216253
Relax dude. The trial has literally just started. Keep your salt contained.

>>46216183
no Wil is JUST higher by as mite

>>46216287
?? Not sure what you're trying to say mate. Probably too tired to think right now.

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157 KB JPG

>>46216067
>>46216071

It's like Crusader Quest never went on hiatus!

"We all knew Raymond of Toulouse had no intention of marrying Alice," Raymond said, "It was a smokescreen to get his clutches on Constance, the Patriarch planned to wed them and see her bedded, leaving Alice an outcast in her own land and giving Antioch over to Toulouse."

"This was the belief of myself and my father," to that Pons stood so that all could see, and nodded.

It was Elias that said - "But surely you are aware that Alice and Toulouse are wed now? The Patriarch married them but a week ago before the people."

"Forced to do such, to keep others from being suspicious. We made a mess of their plans," Raymond leaned back, "To be sure, I don't doubt Domfront plans to kill the girl."

That caused an outraged eruption from the Antioch quarter. That was silenced only with the commanding roar of William Bures from his constable's seat. They settled back to Elias' raised brow.

"That's a heavy thing to lay at a holy man's feet, and not the point of this gathering," Elias said, "Let's stick to what happened. Now you never once laid an ungentle hand upon the girl, correct?"

Raymond shrugged. "I had little to do with her. I left her in Hugo's care. The boy is a lamb in such things, he'd never strike a child, least of all a girl."

"But you encountered violence on the road," Elias continued.

"And Hugo risked his life, with arm broken and half taken by fever, to protect her." Raymond half stood, "I have never known a boy more valiant or deserving of knighthood."

"Can any other's speak to Hugo's character?" Elias asked the crowd, "Will any vouch for Raymond's assessment?"

> speak for your brother
> encourage another to speak (nominate)

>>46216380
> encourage another to speak (nominate)
fulk?

>>46216367
ReviewAnon had it right.

Not even HMQ has rolls so consistently terrible.

>>46216380
>> encourage another to speak (nominate)
Count Hugh? Or Elias himself as he hates our brother but cannot disparage his courage and gallantry for woman.

>>46216380
> encourage another to speak (nominate)


Maybe Fulk ? He could bring up when he charged the turks raider camp alone to save the christian prisoners as evidence to Hugo's character

>>46216380
> encourage another to speak (nominate)
Fulk, Fulk, Fulk

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23 KB JPG

>>46216405
>>46216380

I... I wanna back this vote but I'm scared as fuck.

>>46216353
Wilhelm is by a point or two

>>46216380

Call out Sir Joyce of the Knights Templar, he's effectively a future in-law and he has seen Hugo as a veritable force of justice.

>>46216380
> encourage another to speak (nominate)
Fulk

>>46216561
I think Fulk will be a bit more powerful but, if we can get another to do it. Yeah, he should be the second one.

Although people may bring up the fact he screwed his sister.

>>46216380
> encourage another to speak (nominate)

Fulk,Elias,Gerard,Iovetta and any other Hugo has meet

>>46216545
Ahh gotcha.

>>46216588
Pfft, they're betrothed now so nobody gives a pig poop except for the ultra conservatives.

First witness, Fulk.
Second witness, Sir Joyce.

nb4Raymond screams WITNESS ME

>>46216600
IOvetta could also help yeah. Bring up the comparison to her own rescue.

>>46216588
No one needs to know that his sister lost her virginity to Hugo. Besides, it's not like she got pregnant.

can't wait for hugo to get healed and freed so he can use that dane axe

>>46216561
>>46216600
These two form a comprehensive list of all the chivalry Hugo has accumulated

Time to realize the legend Swordsaint

>>46216636
Laughed harder than at that last part. Going to bed before I wake everyone else up.

>>46216663
He'd have to learn to use it properly first I imagine

>>46216663
Last party member who used an axe was Welf.

We don't want Hugo to die like Welf.

RIP Welf.

>>46216663
Hugo one hands it when?

>>46216731
when he is 6'3f

>>46216744
his German that's doable

>>46216731
Never because Hugo isn't going to be as big mac fuckhuge like Thorkell the Tall in Vinland Saga.

>>46216731
Dual-wielding long-axes like everyone's favorite Chinese General.

>>46216755
Rhinelanders of the medieval period were tall but not as tall and stronk as the Danes or the Norsemen.

Normani and Lombardi on the other hand...

You scoot down from your seat to touch the former king upon the arm. The prince-consort gives you a raised grey eyebrow as you motion toward the court. Without words, just a turn of your palm, you invite Fulk to speak.

As he stands you retreat back up to your perch, sitting on the very edge of your seat as a nervous flutter runs through you.

"I'll vouch for the lad," Fulk stood, "The boy joined me in rescuing a group of pilgrims attacked by Saracen raiders, in full view he admitted he was kin to my enemy and wanted by the law, but would not sit idle while Christians were under threat. After we had defeated the Saracen, he proved his goodness again by defending a woman from one of his brothers-in-arms. He fought a man twice his age for the sake of a Saracen's chastity. If I'd been thinking clearly I'd have seen him knighted then and there."

He stood a mo', looking at the assembly, before then retaking his seat. It brought nods from the crowd, some of them had been there.

Next stood Ioveta. She looked about nervously, her left hand fidgeting into a claw. She gripped her own arm to compose herself.

"When I was traveling, and under constant theat of the Turk, I knew no better or more ready protector than Hugo," she said, "I-I owe him my life. Time and again he dashed into the thickest of fighting, to risk himself for a comrade, or save a commoner caught in the fray. Had Hugo not been there I might yet be dead or worse, locked away in a Saracen harem."

That last drew angry mutters from the assembly. The thought of their pure and chaste princess defiled by the heathen roused their ire, and no doubt made them look more favourably on Hugo.

>>46216039
>Mathilde most keenly, with her Pons, who wet dry lips for nervousness over his son.
Eh?

No others spoke in your brother's defense. Soon Elias gave over to the priest.

"You say this boy is a beckon of chivalry?" he said. Raymond nodded. "Then why did his brother exile him from Ramla for butchering a common boy, and why did our own Sir Joyce of the Templars pursue a grudge against him for deflowering his virgin sister?"

Pippin leaned in. "Did you not know this about your friend?" he asked, "That a black mark runs through his character?"

Raymond looked a little uncomfortable, but replied - "The boy's blood runs hot. A priest like yourself wouldn't understand, it's required in a good knight." That drew some cheers from the younger, hungrier lords, but slight disapproval from the more religious minded.

> remain silent
> speak out against the priest

>>46216809
Pons of Tripoli is Raymond's father, I was writing in third person for that bit. Raymond is also on trial here.

> speak out against the priest

Fuck this guy.

>>46216810
> speak out against the priest

Hugo did so in defence of another and the exile was self imposed in order to seek repentance, no doubt he saw this resuce as his duty!

Sir Joyce and Lord Wilhelm did agree on a Betrothal. Maybe suggest something about true love ?

>>46216810
> speak out against the priest

Oh wtf Joyce, I actually thought he was bro-tier after Christmas Mass and Reflection.

>>46216810
>speak out against the priest

>>46216810
> speak out against the priest
and what does his temper or first love have to do with his so called kidnapping?

>>46216855
He did that before the melee in Sidon. Wilhelm and he settled it but they still see to use it against Hugo

>>46216810
> speak out against the priest
> After committing his crime, note that he did not seek to run or hide from the Constabulary, and deferred to any sentence that his lord deemed fit. He opted to guard my brother's emissary on his trips to secure trading partners, as a way to be useful to my brother.
>As for this deflowering, rest assured that my elder brother has worked out an agreement with Sir Joyce.

>>46216810
I don't know how these trials actually worked but would it be inappropriate for mathilde to say anything here?

>>46216810
> speak out against the priest

only after Grievous insult was given to our family and the law of the land

but once more he did not deny the law and even more sought repentance for his misdeed

warp the events surrounding the murder to justify his rage

>>46216810
Hugo did it in defense of another and the peasent boy did accuse him for being a sodomite.

>>46216810
> speak out against the priest
>"Indeed, that was a horrible crime my brother committed, one that he seeks to redeem himself from. Redemption is what my brother sought in escorting Constance from her crumbling castle!

>>46216871
We should call Joyce out.

He's a Templar and honor is pretty high on their priorities list next to piety.

>>46216885
It mostly revolves around my opinon>your opinion when it comes to nobles committing crimes unless actual laws are broken.

its a bit of both currently but at the least it will lessen the consequences

>>46216810
>>46216923
Supporting.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YF5kO5_oHw

>>46216810
Say stuff along the lines of the scriptures on the topics on man as a sinner but point out that Hugo is a man of redemption. Every act of sin he has ever committed has him being remorseful and regretful, a very Christian deed which the Teachings of Christ has focused on.

Shit, wishing I'd had listened to canon law more when I got assigned to a seminary.

>>46216810
> speak up
>"That's why you escorted the princess from Antioch, isn't it, Hugo? You wished to redeem yourself of your past failings."

"Objection!" you shout as you spring out of your seat, finger thrust out. The eyes of the hall turned on you and for a second you stepped back as if struck, but shook your head and continued. "As a witness to the first allegation I can say this priest grossly exaggerates. My brother was pushed beyond the point of rationality in defense of a dear friend, and after committing the action turned himself over immediately to our lord brother. He insisted upon punishment for his actions, when others would have ignored the crime outright! Repentance, in the eyes of the lord and the peasant boy's family. He behaved honourably!"

You stride along the galley, angrily slapping a fist into the palm of your hand. "And upon that second claim, you cannot know what happened in the bedchamber, but rest assured that my brother has settled his affair with Sir Joyce and they now call each other friend. A betrothal has been arranged between the pair, or some such thing."

You stop before your seat, chest heaving, staring out into the silent crowd.

"I'll not let anyone twist the truth around to cast aspersions on my brother," with that you sat, face red, waiting for it all to resume.

The priest licked his lips, thumbed his ring, and looked mildly annoyed. "Really now, that was all a bit dramatic," then he turned back to the assembly, "But she confirms as much as any, that the boy breaks the law in a moment, and seeks to justify himself in the aftermath. Such lack of forethought cannot be encouraged. Shall we risk the kingdom on the hot blood of a young man?"

You glowered down at the priest.

Raymond stepped down, and Hugo was next brought up.

Elias and he exchanged a long, hostile look, before Elias flashed a grin and did a showman's turn to the crowd.

"The man of the hour!" he said, and to your surprise received some applause.

Hugo's arm was no longer in a splint, and his hair had grown out into a thick blonde mop that shadowed his face. He looked a surly young man, sitting before the assembly. He gave a glance up to the queen and her sisters, the royal children, then turned his eyes back to the court. They found you, and your blue eyes were a reflection of each other.

"Why did you abduct Constance of Antioch?" Elias asked.

Hugo chewed his tongue before answering. "I didn't want to see another innocent girl suffer rape," he said.

"And that's all?" Elias asked, "No motive for money, no desire for land or influence?"

"That's all," Hugo replied, turning the chains that bound him around in his hands.

"That's all," Elias nodded, stepping back, "And who can judge against that?"

The priest came up. Slithered, smiled, looked a man of god. "Perhaps your motives are pure," he said, "bit what of your companion, Raymond of Tripoli?"

There was a flicker in Hugo's eyes.

"Can you say that he was driven by such virtue?"

You felt your heart climb into your throat.

Hugo looked at his feet. "I can't speak for what lies in the heart of another, I can only speak for myself," he said, "Whatever his reasons, we saved a little girl. We acted together and brought her to her aunt safe and sound."

The priest gave your brother an annoyed frown.

> stir the crowd in sympathy for your brother
> remain silent

>>46217102
> stir the crowd in sympathy for your brother
Seize upon that redemption angle.

>>46217102
> remain silent

Hugo for Regent!

lets make Jerusalem great again!

>>46217102
I am afraid to push it

>>46217102
>remain silent
We're pushing it for a minor lord's sister who's not even the proper Lady of Ramla

>>46217102
>>stir the pot
"Something drove you my dear brother. Why made you act in such a desperate fashion?"

>>46217102
>>46217194
Yes.

also: add to ask why he did not try to work it out through regular channels.

>>46217102
> speak out against the priest

>>46217221
Every time

>>46217194
It's not really our place to ask questions I think

>>46217102
>stir
>"On top of owing Raymond his life, my brother's actions can be interpreted as Redemption seeking. His intentions in this affair were good."

>>46217102
> remain silent

Speaking again like that will most likely end up hurting our brother more than anything else.

>>46217102
>> remain silent

>>46217300
I'd rather be punished for trying than end up losing because we were too timid to speak.

>>46217091
Why don't we get any charisma rolls for our defense?

>>46217334

I think in this case we need to know when to push and press. Hes obviously already lost his attack momentum. The next swing, we press our advantage. If we do so now, we might swing the crowd the other way for being too strong, especially since matty is already viewd as a little too unconventional.

>>46217354
either we did, HF knows our rolls will be shit (they always are after Hiatus) or its coming up

>>46217374
If we have the momentum, then saying further things would swing more people to our side.

>>46217376
>either we did, HF knows our rolls will be shit (they always are) or its coming up

fix'd

>>46217354
Koblenz charm mate.

It's like questioning why the ladies would suck Robert Downing Jr or Tom Hiddleston's cocks within a second of meeting.

>>46217397
Its like sword fighting, you cant always be on the attack, lest you overstep.

>>46217404
The STDs?

>>46217376
Heh, I had a mental image of HF throwing his hands up in the air and reaching for a cold beer after seeing the pair of 10-somethings on that best of roll.

>>46217424
Ah, but you see, we are the defense, and Blocking is always advantageous in duels.

>>46217424
So parry parry counter dodge parry?

"After all you've heard and seen, how can you doubt him?" you step up again. The priest rolls his eyes, "Everything my brother has done has been with good Christian intentions. Every sin he has committed he has sought redemption. Can everyone here claim to have done the same?" You make a fist before you, eyes looking for lords, locking them in place.

You saw nods, you saw frowns. It was Count Hugh that gave a light 'huzzah' which his wife carried, but the disapproving look of Bures silenced before it could take off.

"The man has a devoted sister," Elias said, "None can ever doubt that."

Which drew applause.

Further questions were given, inconsequential things, and soon the questions finished and it came to the advocates to speak their mind.

The priest spoke first.

"We cannot let the realm become beholden to the whims of young, angry men," he said, "We cannot let crimes be forgiven in the clear light of the day after. Forget circumstance. Think only of what would happen if some young hotspur came into your lands, made off with your daughters, caused a disarray and made amends by falling back on apology and Christian duty. Would you be so forgiving? I think not."

The priest made room for Elias.

>>46217445
Yes but we've already parried his accusations. Now his attack has pettered to nothing.

If questioning switches back to us, we can draw the tears and stir the pot as to why he took such a large step.

>>46217445
>>46217424
>>46217455
>forgetting the best thing to do in a CQ duel is to BLOCK BLOCK BLOCK

I feel like it would be better for someone else to chime in since we're of low station and we just aggressively spoke in his defense already. I don't pretend to know for sure what would be considered appropriate though, I'm not a historian

"Forget circumstance," Elias looked at his opponent with a mocking smile, "Forget motive, forget the individual. Boil it all to abstract. Throw out even Christ. This is what this -priest- wants you to do. Dismiss God from the equation, as if that were so casually done." Elias raised his hand. "This kingdom was founded by passionate, hotblooded men guided by a Christian duty. Never forget that. And I see no one else who exemplifies the virtues of our ancestors more than Hugo and Raymond. Not content to wait on the excuses of powerful lords for acting unChristian, not content to set aside morality for political expediency. Can we claim to be a better people than the Saracen, when we are willing to throw away our best young men in the name of simple politics, to placate the powerful and power hungry?"

Elias slammed his fist into his palm, which caused a start in the crowd. "They say Jerusalem is a kingdom of law. I say it is a kingdom of Christ, founded by the devouted, protected by the hot blooded. I say we do not throw that all away for the machinations of one patriarch whose reach goes beyond his grasp. I say we declare now, firmly, that we are a land that stands for more than just local politics, but embodies all that is good and best in Christianity. I say we stand with these two young men, and recognize them for what they are. Heroes, and Christians, and worth defending to the very death. Who is with me?"

> I'm with you!
> say nothing

>>46217471
But anon that only works until the shield cracks and splinters into a useless pile of wood and iron.

>>46217462
>think only of what would happen if some young hotspur came into your lands, made off with your daughters, caused a disarray and made amends by falling back on apology and Christian duty. Would you be so forgiving? I think not."

well considering what happened to the last man charged of abduction got himself........

>>46217491
> I'm with you!