>>1113073
>This sounds reasonable. I'll take it. Thank you, David.

>>1113073
>I haven't been home in so long etc.

I really think we shoud get back to our holdings

>>1113073
>I'm not sure about it. I'm carrying lots of stuff that I don't need to bring there. Also, I would like to adjust my escort. If we could somehow arrange this, I would be good with it.

>>1113099
>>1113101
>>1113109
So,we've got a tie currently? Or does anybody else want to vote?

>>1113073
>I haven't been home in so long, I need to catch up on things. Sorry, but I'll have to decline.
We gotta keep a close eye on the situation of our lands, plus there might be a fucking war going on soon

>I really appreciate your offer, but I've been away from home for quite some time. With all the new additions I've made and the situation in the east, I'm sure you can understand my wish to supervise the situation myself.
Lord Sang-Valois nods.
>Sure. It's always better to see for yourself, right? I think I would do it the same way.
After some more chatting, you go to bed. Tomorrow, you will return home after three months. You wonder what will have happened during that time as you finally fall asleep.

Time and space travel time!
Choose five things back at home that you would like to see during these three months. You will see it through the eyes of one of your servants.
>Keep an eye on the possible war. Are they making any preparations that would be possibly dangerous to us? (Missa)
>See how the militia is doing. They will be our most important part of keeping possible enemies away. (Guy)
>Train the vikings into a secret militia. They need to be accepted alongside the people to truly integrate them into society. (Duncan)
>Keep your edge at swordfighting and maybe help someone with their own fighting? (Alphonse)
>You might not be a knight yet, but that's no reason to slack off in any way. You just have to work harder. Lord Jean will be proud of you. (Damien)
>You're still only decent at sewing. But you promised Lord Jean the best quality of babies' clothing you could produce. Try harder. Way harder. (Leonore)
>You've got these menials now, but this only means more work. Train them well. (Henry)
>Politics never take a break. Let's keep everything well adjusted. (Lucius)
>There are less merchants during the winter, but this is the perfect chance to stock up on free samples. We need to make our woodworking industry great again. (Richard)
>You've got this new sawblade, so you could possibly raise production. After all, you heard about Lord Jean wanting to renovate every house in the spring. (Monsieur Mustachio, the head woodcutter)
>Your people might soon be integrated back into society. Prepare them for this change. (Wulfgar)
>Winter is a season for colds and the flu. Let's keep our people healthy. (Tuttle)
>During the winter, there's not much to do. Still, we have to stay away from drinking, however possible. (Dagobert)
>Ulysses, the teacher will arrive soon. Now, we need the teaching materials and school house. (Maurice)
>Something else? (Write in)

And a last option I forgot:
>Lord Jean took you with him, so you could learn about artistic stoneworking. Let's make him proud. (Ulf/Miroslav)

>>1113157
>Keep an eye on the possible war. Are they making any preparations that would be possibly dangerous to us? (Missa)
>Train the vikings into a secret militia. They need to be accepted alongside the people to truly integrate them into society. (Duncan)
>Politics never take a break. Let's keep everything well adjusted. (Lucius)
>Your people might soon be integrated back into society. Prepare them for this change. (Wulfgar)
>During the winter, there's not much to do. Still, we have to stay away from drinking, however possible. (Dagobert)

>>1113157
>Keep your edge at swordfighting and maybe help someone with their own fighting? (Alphonse)
>See how the militia is doing. They will be our most important part of keeping possible enemies away. (Guy)
>You've got this new sawblade, so you could possibly raise production. After all, you heard about Lord Jean wanting to renovate every house in the spring. (Monsieur Mustachio, the head woodcutter)
>Ulysses, the teacher will arrive soon. Now, we need the teaching materials and school house. (Maurice)
>Train the vikings into a secret militia. They need to be accepted alongside the people to truly integrate them into society. (Duncan)

>>1113248
>>1113276
Alright, guys. We've got two votes for Duncan so far, so one option is decided, I guess. The other four, I'm waiting for another decision.

>>1113276
>>1113289
I'll change Ulysses to Lucius then

>>1113303
Which would make two of them set. Anyone here who didn't vote yet?

>>1113311
I'll change Dagobert to Alphonse.

>>1113289
Let's meet with Missa and Duncan

Well, guys... We're at Duncan, Missa, Alphonse and Lucius. One more person to choose.

I have finally catched up!

>Your people might soon be integrated back into society. Prepare them for this change. (Wulfgar)

>>1113157
>>1113543
>Your people might soon be integrated back into society. Prepare them for this change. (Wulfgar)

You are Duncan MacGregor, castellan and currently highest-ranking military officer to Jean de Labendai. During the winter, you will be tasked with training a special force to bolster the realm's forces. The viking legion. Well, they're not barely enough people to be a legion, but you like the name. After half a day of riding, you arrive at the charburners' camp, deep in the forest. You've only been here a handful of times, and without your lord letting you in on this secret, you never would have known about Olafshall.
>Hello, Sir Duncan. What brings you here?
the big man you know as Wulfgar greets you. You get off your horse and shake his hand. For a long time, you've been considered a giant among men, standing even taller than Lord Jandant himself, but this man towers above you even.
>I bring news from Lord Jean. He wrote me this letter. Can you read it yourself or should I read it to you?
The man shrugs.
>I can read the runes of my ancestors. All this new writing with its squiggly lines is foreign to me.
You take out the letter and show him the undamaged seal, depicting an elk's skull crowned with evergreen leaves. He nods, accepting the message as truthful.
You begin to read the letter.

Greetings, Wulfgar of the North.
I, Jean de Labendai have finally found a way to integrate you into society. Please help me with this by preparing your people for the change they might face soon.
The vikings of the north are considered the most intimidating opponents history has ever known. Now, we need to put this intimidation against our enemies.
In the east, the provinces of Dupont and Daymarque are calling for war, a war that might meet us on the side.
Therefore, I send Duncan MacGregor to train you into a military force of unparalleled ability. I hope you will follow his orders.
Jean de Labendai

You roll up the letter and put it back into your pocket. Wulfgar nods agreeingly.
>This letter speaks true, just like you do. It is indeed from Lord Jean.
You nod. But how did he know?
>He's always trying to sound as tough as possible when conversing with me. I do feel kind of honored, but I'm not a completely mindless brute. Maybe I should tell him someday.
Wulfgar says. You have a good laugh, before Wulfgar shows you around the camp.
>Now, how would you like to train us? And who would you like to train?
A good question. Luckily, you planned this in advance. You will train...
>Everyone here, all the time. We need as many warriors as possible.
>A selected handful. An elite force should only consist of the best.
>Everyone who can be spared. Lowering the productivity of the charburners isn't going to help us.
>Have the men take shifts. Some train, some rest, some work. We want everyone trained without losses in productivity or motivation.
>Something else? (Write in)
[cont.]

Also, you thought of them as...
>An interception force. Ambush messengers and smaller units carrying messages and supplies.
>A bee-sting force. Surprise the enemy, hack and slash, then retreat. No one wears down opponents' morale better than mighty savages.
>Use their massive strength and use them as a formation-breaker. It's the most warrior-like, even though they might be a bit low in numbers for this. Maybe their skill can make up for it?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1113855
>Have the men take shifts. Some train, some rest, some work. We want everyone trained without losses in productivity or motivation.

>A bee-sting force. Surprise the enemy, hack and slash, then retreat. No one wears down opponents' morale better than mighty savages.

File: Crops.png (65 KB, 297x308)

65 KB PNG

>>1113855
>Have the men take shifts. Some train, some rest, some work. We want everyone trained without losses in productivity or motivation.

>A bee-sting force. Surprise the enemy, hack and slash, then retreat. No one wears down opponents' morale better than mighty savages.

You decide to have the men take shifts. After all, you need as many fighters as you possibly can bring to the field. Still, this will reduce the overall time a single man will be training. Maybe you need some way to make up for it?
You don't, which greatly pleases you. The vikings have some advanced combat training, which might be foreign, but unquestionably effective.
Since the principles of fighting are surely known to them, you start with the tactics as a whole, which goes just as well.
>We've been training like this all the time. During the old times, most of our raids were executed like this.
Wulfgar explains to you. Well, this surely is good news. After only a month of the three you considered, you are completely satisfied with your efforts.
Now, the question is what you will do with the rest of the time?
>Return to Saint Michel and help with the training of the regular militia. They might need help.
>Stay here and work on something else. (What?)
>Go home to Saint Michel and keep an eye on the eastern border. You never know what might happen.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1114043
>Return to Saint Michel and help with the training of the regular militia. They might need help.
Try working some "bee sting" tactics into the militia training so they know how to work with them when the time comes

>>1114043
>Return to Saint Michel and help with the training of the regular militia. They might need help.

>>1114043
>>Go home to Saint Michel and keep an eye on the eastern border. You never know what might happen.

>>1114087
>>1114234
>>1114043
Why can't we do both of these? Run training exercises along the border and the terrain to learn how to defend our realm and work in more than one environment

You decide to return to Saint Michel early, leaving Wulfgar and his men with the task of preparing to return into society, as well as a cage full of ravens, which Henry handed you for 'important messages', as he put it.
Back at Saint Michel, the soldiers have done good work so far. A lot of people joined the militia. You guess that learning to protect yourself and your home is a good motivation.
The soldiers did well, but with you present, they do even more so, training the peasants into a force that might even have an actual use beside showing numbers.
After they finished the basic training, you begin to incorporate some simple tactics. Using the terrain to your advantage, safe retreats, everything they might need to even the field again bigger or better trained forces.
You even manage to implement a bit of strategy that will complement the vikings' fighting style nicely. Together, they will be a force to be reckoned with.
[Gained: Viking militia (elite)]
[Gained: Peasant militia (high class militia)]

---------------------------------------------------------------------
Your name is Missa and you are a spy. Not simply any spy, but one of the best in all of the kingdom. Lord Jandant did well in making you his spymaster and Lord Jean did well in keeping you in this position.
Right now, there is a threat rising in the east. Lord Dupont and Lord Daymarque are gearing for war. Lord Daymarque even bolstered his ranks with a mercenary force from Flanders, using the coin gained from the former Labendai provinces that subjected themselves to his rule. Damn cowards.
Well, where do you start with this war? Right, information.
You have two provinces that argued for decades, but never fought due to a similar size in military might. Now, the loss of the Labendai provinces tipped the scales in Lord Daymarque's favour, fuelling his ambition.
This war usually wouldn't bother you the slightest, weren't you neighbouring the provinces. Deserters or an overly ambitious winner could be hurtful to this province.
If you had to decide this, you would just have let someone poison Lord Daymarque during the night, but Jean just had to decide to play it clean.
>Now, this is a good lot of information. But I need more. Numbers, at best. Troops, coin, allies...
you mumble to yourself. Now, how do you want to obtain it?
>Send a spy. You have enough trustworthy contacts to help you with this.
>The king sent a spy himself. Try to find this spy once they return from their investigation and ask them to share with you.
>Go yourself. Disguising yourself as a traveling dancer wouldn't be too hard, and your skills at this would surely open your way to a more noble crowd soon. Some things, you just have to see yourself.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1114282
>Go yourself. Disguising yourself as a traveling dancer wouldn't be too hard, and your skills at this would surely open your way to a more noble crowd soon. Some things, you just have to see yourself.

>>1114290
>>1114282
Actually, I'm still okay with this, but the way the wording is makes it seem we're constantly on the move. That might bite us in the future, so I'd like to change this somehow so she has a permanent residence in Labendai town, if anybody peeks a bit further into her life.

>>1114282
>>Send a spy. You have enough trustworthy contacts to help you with this.

Any more votes? At the moment, I see a tie.

>>1114389
Hey, switch your vote to what I suggested, it's better.

File: Leighton-God_Speed!.jpg (5.18 MB, 2904x4000)

5.18 MB JPG

>>1114389
The risk does not outweigh the reward

>>1114447
feel free to flip a coin.

>>1114465
You cunt. Stop being dumb, this is way better and we will be back by the time Jean comes home

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>1114466
Calm down, man. I'll deal with this like any reasonable adult would. Meeting up with you and settling it over a match of table tennis
Here's the tie-breaker.
>>1114290
is 1
>>1114389
is 2

>>1114484
Fuck, going over there personally just had so much to gain. I'm actually disappointed, unlike with the growth vote, which was okay

You decide to simply send a spy of your own. After all, there's a reason you keep up this intricate network.
>Brogar! Come here, I've got work for you.
you order the greasy-looking young man. He comes around the corner, nodding in agreement.
>Just as you say, Lady Missa. What should I do?
You take a playing card from your pocket, the king of spades and hand it to him.
>Don't lose it. Otherwise, I will make you lose your king, got it?
He's quick to grab the phallic joke, nodding eagerly.
>Also, travel to the Black Mare, a pub near to the old coal mines. Ask for any possibilities to play a round. That's it.
After explaining where the formerly Labendai coal mines are situated, he leaves.
Well, this leaves you, too. Waiting, mostly.
>Roll 1d20+2 for your success in information gathering. Best of three.

Rolled 7 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>1114508

>>1114486
As a famous German sportsman once said: 'That's life. Some days you lose, some days, the others win.'
Don't take it personally.

>>1114515
As a famous German sportsman once said: 'gas the jews, fucking kikes ruin everything.'

Alright, guys. It's nearly 3 am over here and I have work to do tomorrow. Since this will keep me occupied all day, I will be back on Thursday after my doctor's appointment.
Until then, feel free to roll. Good night and thanks for playing.

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>1114508

Rolled 20 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>1114508

Brogar returns after a few days.
>I did as you said, Lady Missa. Still, they didn't give me any new information. Is this how it's supposed to be?
he asks. You nod. Of course it's supposed to be like this. You don't trust this guy too much yet. After all, he was a bandit half a year ago. And a pretty bad one, to make it worse. Therefore, you chose a route of information gathering that would report to you directly.
>Everything went just as planned. You may leave now.

It's been around two weeks of waiting once you get what you've been asking for.
Upon one of your occasional visits to your inn, you are met with a highly happy greeting.
>Hello, mom. How did you do? We didn't see each other in sooo long.
Mireille, your youngest daughter greets you in her most cheerful voice. She's always been the cheeriest of your three girls.
>Hello, sweetheart. I did good. How about yourself?
Mireille leads you to one of the rooms.
>Wonderful. Why don't we go to my room? We have so much to tell each other.
You smile. Good girl. Looks like you taught her well.
>So, how are your little pet birds doing?
you ask her. Ever since Mireille became of age, she took up residence in the town of Montreuil, she's been keeping an eye on the neighbouring provinces for you.
>Well, Dany has got more younglings than Dopey, but she can't really feed them all. If they don't grow up quickly, some of the younglings might starve. I think I will really have to do something about this.
she tells you in her usual cheery tone, although it has quite some seriousity mixed into it.
That's bad news. The snow hinders any advancement right now, but once it starts melting, Lord Daymarque will have to push for a quick gain in land and supplies, since he can't keep his army and the mercenaries fed.
>Oh, maybe it's their resting places? Where do they live around your house?
you answer, hoping to get information on the position of anything relevant.
>Oh, Dopey is keeping everyone together in her nest. Dany's younglings are a bit older already. The stronger ones already started wandering from the nest. Somewhere closer to my home, actually.
Well, this is a good piece of information. Looks like the mercenaries have take their residence somewhere near Montreuil, away from the main force. Looks like Daymarque is trying to go for a flanking attack.
>Interesting. They usually do this way later, don't they? I hope they bother no one.
you add, inquiring about possible invasions of the Labendai lands.
>I doubt it. Everybody is keeping their doors closed, so they won't soil any homes.
Well, this is reassuring. Unless they got some siege equipment and such, nobody will be able to take up banditry on the Labendai lands, which would be... highly unlikely for deserters. And openly attacking with an official force would create even more turmoil than they can possibly handle.
Now, there is only one question that you would have to answer yourself.
[cont.]

How do you want to deal with the situation given?
>Lord Jean insisted on keeping out of it. Looks like we easily could. Let's honor his wishes.
>Even though they might not attack, gaining control of both realms, they might be dangerous for us in the future. Maybe militarily, surely economically. We should make sure nobody can win. Maybe some... secret sabotage?
>Lord Daymarque's strongest advantage are the mercenaries. If we somehow made sure they wouldn't get paid anymore, they would leave, right? This way, a war might be surely averted completely.
>See if you can somehow contact the king's spy. We would need their opinion on this.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1119291
>See if you can somehow contact the king's spy. We would need their opinion on this.

>>1119369
Looks like we only got this one vote.
Well, you won. Roll me 2d20+1 for your investigation success. Best of three.

Rolled 17, 15 + 1 = 33 (2d20 + 1)

>>1119781

>>1119291
>>Lord Jean insisted on keeping out of it. Looks like we easily could. Let's honor his wishes.

Rolled 5, 3 + 1 = 9 (2d20 + 1)

>>1119781

Rolled 1, 9 + 1 = 11 (2d20 + 1)

>>1119781
Dice

You decide to get another opinion. Of course, you will keep out of it for now, since Lord Jean insisted, but if you can present him with the matching facts, maybe he'll change his mind?
>Now, how do I find this investigator the king sent... Going there? Hoping she passes through here again?
You decide for the latter, since you don't feel like leaving Saint Michel at the moment. Possibly, your skills might be needed here.
Therefore, you head down to the market hall at each possible occasion. Taking a walk, needing some coal, groceries... You take every opportunity.
After a week of frequent visits, you finally find the thing you've been looking for. A woman with a cart full of vegetables.
>Good morning, do you have any beetroot juice? And do you have vegetables only? I sure could go for some fruit.
you say. The woman seems surprised at first, but signs you to come inside her stall.
>Of course, I've got beetroot juice aplenty. People don't seem to want it that much. But I'm surprised. You don't seem like the type of person that goes here to buy fruit.
Well, she's inquiring about you. Checking for spies and possible coincidence.
>Of course. I work in the castle as a dance teacher. I need my skin to be soft and without wrinkles. Nothing like lots of fruit and vegetables to keep it that way.
The woman smirks mischievously. She knows what you are. Still, she won't tell anyone. Even spies have honor among themselves.
>I sold a lot of vegetables, but sadly these are all I have. My husband will have to see to the fruit. I will tell him to head here once I'm back home. Still, with the roads at this season, it might take a while. I think he should arrive in February.
You thank her and purchase a jar of beetroot juice for covering up this excursion. Also, it really is good for the skin.
Now, the weather has to stay cold enough for the snow to stay around. This will prevent any army from marching.
But this year, it seems like you might be getting lucky.

----------------------------------------------------------------
Your name is Alphonse de l'Etoile and you are Lord Jean's teacher in the ways of the blade.
After following him to the court of Lord Sang-Valois, you could watch him defeat the former's daughter. Beating a woman isn't a noteable feat usually, but this woman is... special.
Since you will be here for the next three months anyway, you might as well find something to do.
What will it be?
>You've only been a knight for a few months now, so you don't really know too many others. Maybe you should spend time with the knights that belong to House Sang-Valois?
>Train your swordsmanship. You're a master, but that doesn't mean there is anything to learn anymore. Maybe a more refined style? Or a second one?
>This Ariadne girl is special. Maybe she will enjoy a good opponent?
>These soldiers seem like good company. In training and feasting alike. Maybe we should spend time with them?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1120090
>>You've only been a knight for a few months now, so you don't really know too many others. Maybe you should spend time with the knights that belong to House Sang-Valois?

>>1120090
>You've only been a knight for a few months now, so you don't really know too many others. Maybe you should spend time with the knights that belong to House Sang-Valois?
This makes more sense and is better in the long run but I want to fight Ariadne too...

>>1120090
>>You've only been a knight for a few months now, so you don't really know too many others. Maybe you should spend time with the knights that belong to House Sang-Valois?

connections, connections, connections.

You decide to build yourself a reputation that is build on the sword instead of the fact that you are Lord de l'Etoile's son.
During dinner, you sit down at the table the knights of Sang-Valois sit, too.
You hold a brief conversation or two, but most dialogue is lost over the fact that you're presented with lots of great food.
>If you want to talk, meet us on the training grounds, I'd say.
a man around the age of your father tells you. You nod. That sounds good. You might hold a few spars, too. In case they feel like it.
The next morning, you step out in the fresh snow. Most knights seem to have prefered being close to a fire instead of being out here.
There's only the man you spoke with yesterday, who seems to be working his skills with the morning star, a tall knight training what seems to be pugilism and two knights training the soldiers. Who would you like to approach?
>The old man. He seemed like a nice fellow.
>The big man. A lot of people have bonded over a round of fistfighting, right?
>The group of soldiers and their commanders. (Join the training routine? Stand and watch? Something else?)
>Just find a place to practice. If somebody is interested in conversation, they will come up.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1120090
>>This Ariadne girl is special. Maybe she will enjoy a good opponent?
Fuck I am a sucker for the waifu route.

>>1120211
>The old man. He seemed like a nice fellow.
Old men know tricks

>>1120211
>>The old man. He seemed like a nice fellow.

>Mornin', my boy. How's your night been?
the old man asks. You nod.
>Good morning. Pretty good so far. Tell me, is there anything interesting I could learn around here? I'm pretty decent with a blade, but otherwise I'm always happy to learn.
The old man smiles.
>Sure. We're known for being the kingdom's best cavalry. Also, there are masters of pretty much any weapon around. For example, I could teach you about the morning star. Interested, son?
Well, you'll have to think about this. Learning about pretty much everything was a thing that last was available at military academy.
What would you like to learn about?
>Who could teach me about the cavalry things? You always should learn something from the best.
>The morning star sounds good. Teach me, please.
>Is there any swordmaster around? Just because you're good at something, it doesn't mean you should stop learning.
>Anyone good with (a bow?/a mace?/an axe?/a lance?) There's no weapon that even barely compares to my sword. That can't be good, right?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1120533
>Who could teach me about the cavalry things? You always should learn something from the best.

>>1120533
>>Who could teach me about the cavalry things? You always should learn something from the best.

>Who could teach me about cavalry-related fighting? After all, the Sang-Valois are famous for it, right?
you ask. The old man chuckles.
>Well, basically everyone here can. No one becomes a knight here before perfecting this. Let me just gather a few guys. This is a thing best learned together.
After some time, he comes back with five more knights, each of them on horseback.
>Now, let's get our horses. And if I may suggest, maybe a more suitable weapon? A shortsword doesn't do much at the improved range that being on horseback puts you at.
He might be right. Still, maybe you could compensate for the short range with dexterity?
>We should change to (what weapon?). We feel reasonably confident with it, so it should be fine.
>Let them propose a more suitable weapon. They should know best, right?
>Let's stay with the sword. We're good at it, so it should work out somehow.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1120588
>We should change to (what weapon?). We feel reasonably confident with it, so it should be fine.
Maybe a longsword of some sort?

>>1120588
>>Let them propose a more suitable weapon. They should know best, right?
theyll probably give us a training spear or something like that.

>Let them propose a more suitable weapon. They should know best, right?

>Well, what would you propose? I can work with everything reasonably well, though none of it is comparable to my swordsmanship.
you tell them. The old man throws you a lance.
>This is probably the easiest thing to start with. No swinging and such, just pointing it at whatever you want to hit.
You agree with him and get your horse from the stables. Once you return, the men tell you about the basics of their cavalry tactics.
As it seems, it's not a fighting or rushing style, but instead relies on a certain formation.
Roll me 2d20+1 for your learning success. Best of three.

Rolled 14, 13 + 1 = 28 (2d20 + 1)

>>1120763

Rolled 20, 10 + 1 = 31 (2d20 + 1)

>>1120763

Rolled 4, 8 = 12 (2d20)

>>1120763

First, your efforts are somewhat limited in success, since your lancework is still lacking. You take a break to work on that first.
Looks like the Sang-Valois' knights are masters of the lance just like they are of mounted combat. After only an hour, you feel a lot more proficient with your lance.
Now, the real training can begin. You're doing reasonably well, but are still years behind each of the soldiers.
>Don't worry, son. We'll get you in shape in no time.
the old man says, dismounting his horse.
>But first, we go and eat dinner. It was a long day.
He's right. You should end it for today. After all, it's getting pretty dark. And cold.
Now, the question is clear. Do you want to continue this training?
>Sure. Let's train until we've got it down perfectly.
>No, we should do something else.
>Yes, we should continue to train this for (how many?) more days.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1120850
>Yes, we should continue to train this for (how many?) more days.
3

>>1120850
>Yes, we should continue to train this for (how many?) more days.
A week or two.

>>1120863
>>1120850
Okay, I'll go with a week

>>1120850
>>Sure. Let's train until we've got it down perfectly.

A week, huh? Alright, roll me 7d10+1 for your learning success. Best of three.

Rolled 1, 9, 2, 7, 5, 6, 2 + 1 = 33 (7d10 + 1)

>>1120940

Rolled 1, 3, 3, 9, 9, 4, 6 = 35 (7d10)

>>1120940

Rolled 2, 8, 9, 2, 9, 7, 2 + 1 = 40 (7d10 + 1)

>>1120940

You decide to undergo this training for another week. After all, it seems pretty useful.
>Well done, so far. Well done, son.
the old man, which you have by now identified as Gerard, the steward, says.
>All of us have been knights for a long time, but none of us learned this quickly. You seem talented at anything that's related to fighting. Still, I don't feel like you are completely there. Maybe you might want to continue?
Well, you did good indeed. Still, slip-ups happen more frequently than you like them to. Do you want to continue training?
>Sure. Let's go at it until we've got it down.
>Let's say we've got another... (how long?)
>We should really be working on something else. (What?)
>Something else completely? (Write in)

>>1121012
>Sure. Let's go at it until we've got it down.

>>1121012
>>Sure. Let's go at it until we've got it down.

>>1121012
>Sure. Let's go at it until we've got it down.

You decide to keep up the training routine. Your decision pays of faster than you thought it would. Only five days later, you manage to keep the formation perfectly.
>Well done, son. You could easily be mistaken for one of our knights now. If you weren't already bound to Lord de Labendai, I would have asked you to join our ranks, actually.
Gerard compliments you. You thank the old man and get off the horse. Riding this long each day starts to hurt in the more valuable parts of your body after some time.
[+Basics of Sang-Valois' riding combat: Finished. Mastery is obtainable now.]
[+Basics of lancemanship: Finished. Mastery is obtainable now.]
Two weeks are over. This leaves you with ten more. How do you want to spend these?
>Ignore the pain and focus on mastering the riding combat. Who knows when you will be able to train in this fortunate circumstances again?
>Train with the soldiers. (And the redheaded lady knight in special?)
>We have lots of time to grow into our swordfighting even more. Why not, actually?
>We are good at using a lance. Why not be better?
>Training the (axe? mace? bow? morning star?) sounds good. We should do so.
>We should be more... sociable. Bond with our fellow knights over some sword fights or something. They only know us as a student, but not as a master.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1121075
>Train with the soldiers. (And the redheaded lady knight in special

>>1121075
>We have lots of time to grow into our swordfighting even more. Why not, actually?

>>1121075
>>We have lots of time to grow into our swordfighting even more. Why not, actually?

You decide to work on your swordsmanship again. Since you already know of all the basics and have finished your own style, you take some time to watch the various swordfighters in the Sang-Valois troops. Some try the fast approach like you, but some are doing it differently. Wielding two swords at once, wielding a two-handed sword.... You see lots of possibilities.
Now, what would you like to work on?
>Our strikes are very swift, but have to hit weak spots each time, since they would glide off armor without much trouble otherwise. But if we could put more power behind it...
>Sir Fabien gave us an incredibly hard time, back at the ceremony. His two axes were hard to fight back against. Maybe if we used another sword...
>Our sword has always gone with a shield. There has to be a way to use it for more than just blocking...
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1121207
>>Our strikes are very swift, but have to hit weak spots each time, since they would glide off armor without much trouble otherwise. But if we could put more power behind it...

>>1121207
>Our strikes are very swift, but have to hit weak spots each time, since they would glide off armor without much trouble otherwise. But if we could put more power behind it...
Dual wielding blades is for fags

>>1121230
>>1121243
Alright, guys. I'll write this down in around ten hours. Until then, good night and thanks for playing.

You are fast and dexterous like a cat, which is greatly helping against simple soldiers and those with light armor.
Still, you don't feel like your usual style is too suitable against opponents with heavy armor, since it makes you highly dependent on possible weak points.
But what if you had another style? A stronger one maybe?
Heading to the storage of training weapons, you find a few things that match your wishes. What would you like to pick up?
>The large, two-handed blade. Will slow you down most likely, but should be doing well with smashing at plate.
>The massive one-handed blade. It's difficult to wield, due to its great weight, but once you've adjusted, it should work like your usual fighting style.
>Your usual sword is good enough at piercing. What if you just took it into two hands?
>Maybe you would like to work with something else? A mace? An axe? A morning star? Those are made to beat heavily armored opponents, right?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1122637
>Your usual sword is good enough at piercing. What if you just took it into two hands?

>>1122637
>Your usual sword is good enough at piercing. What if you just took it into two hands?

>>1122637
Change my vote from>>1123009 to

>Something else? (Write in)
Try half-sword, effectively grappling with a blade but it is designed to defeat plate mail armour by applying greater force to weak points or in general.

>>1122637
>Your usual sword is good enough at piercing. What if you just took it into two hands?
Half sword hasn't been invented yet

>>1123072
It hasn't? Dammit, well I know what we are going to do...

>>1122637
>The large two handed blade

You draw your shortsword after putting some training plate on a training puppet.
First, you begin to test out your usual attacks against the armor, checking how you hit the various pieces, where the blade glides off and such things.
Quite a few soldiers gather, marveling at your sheer speed of attack.
>Well, so much about that. Now, let's get to inventing something actually useful.
you say to yourself. Taking two weeks to work on this sounds reasonable, even though you might need more. But you've got a limited amount of time here, so you should use it reasonably.
>You're training for a new mastery now. Roll me 7 bonus dice. (Seven times a single d10 roll)

Rolled 7 (1d10)

>>1123705
Fuck, I forgot to post in this.

Rolled 1, 4, 6, 1, 9, 1 = 22 (6d10)

Since nothing much happened, I'll just roll the missing dice and continue. Maybe people will join once they got some story.

Two weeks are over and you feel like you have made some progress. Not as much as you would have liked to, but some of it nontheless.
Maybe you just need to keep it up? Or do you need help from someone? You're not entirely sure.
Eight more weeks until you are leaving this place. How do you want to spend this time?
>Keep up working on that new fighting style. You need to be able to defeat every possible opponent. [Mastery progress: 29/100]
>You should spend more time with your fellow knights. You learned some quite helpful things from them. (What would you like to learn about? Or would you just like to socialize and make connections?)
>Spend time with the soldiers. You might want to brush up on the basics. Or spend time with the fiery haired lady knight. She seems interesting.
>Lord Sang-Valois has great taverns on his land. Maybe we should just relax for a while. Maybe we'll learn about something interesting?
>Being a knight is one thing, being a leader is something completely different. Maybe someone can teach you about commanding troops?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1124290
>Being a knight is one thing, being a leader is something completely different. Maybe someone can teach you about commanding troops?

>>1124290
>Spend time with soldiers...

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>1124303
>>1124349
Looks like we need a tie-breaker here.

You decide to spend some time around the soldiers. When you came to Lord Jean's court for employment, you had to admit that you are way too inexperienced with leading men to be a Master-of-Arms.
Maybe you should watch what these guys are doing? Or join them to get a better feeling of the things they do?
As you approach the formation of soldiers, which seem to be running a basic endurance drill, you notice the man who you know as the Master-of-Arms sitting on a barrel, only issuing a command or commenting on something every once in a while. But at all times, the red haired knight, Lady Ariadne, is shouting orders, and most of the time, critiques.
>Come on, come on, come on! This can't be all you've got!
she shouts at the soldiers, who are doing push-ups in heavy armor. Good for endurance, but most likely not too good for morale.
Now, what do you want to do?
>Watch Ariadne. She seems like a spirited commander.
>Watch the Master-of-Arms. He seems pretty calm and collected.
>Join in on the training. You want to get a feeling of this.
>Ask for permission to join. You don't want to be rude.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1124511
Watch the master at arms

>>1124511
>Watch the Master-of-Arms. He seems pretty calm and collected.

Being spirited might be a good thing at times, but from what you saw, Ariadne seems to be lacking in oversight, should she get too excited. You would rather take a reasonable approach at this.
Therefore, you watch the Master-of-Arms during his training. Looks like he's in charge of the general way the training is going, with Ariadne filling in the details.
Changing between movement-intensive exercises and those that are less so, the soldiers keep in shape without being too exhausted. This seems like a good approach.
As the sun is sinking, the man disbands the soldiers. You're not sure if they are training all day all the time, but you highly doubt it. Nobody has this stamina.
>I saw you watching, Sir Alphonse. Can I help you somehow?
the Master-of-Arms approaches you. You shrug.
>I'm not sure. Actually, I wanted to learn about commanding troops and such. My lord has no Master-of-Arms at the moment. I wasn't fit for the post, due to lack of commanding experience.
He nods.
>Well, we surely could do a thing or two about that. Why don't you come to the practice sessions the next few days and I tell you a thing or two?
This is a pretty good offer. How would you like to answer this?
>Write in your acceptance/rejection and set some additional requests, if you got some. Get creative.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
That's it for today, guys. Since tomorrow is my dad's birthday, I will be absent most if not all of the time. But I should be back on Sunday some time after noon. I'll let you know on Twitter. Until then, feel free to write in.
Good night and thanks for playing.

>>1124708
"With pleasure, my good man. Perhaps I could offer some pointers with blade work in return?"

>This sounds like a great offer, Sir. Still, it also sounds like one too generous to take without giving something in return. May I offer you some insight on my swordsmanship in return?
you say, making the old man smile and nod.
>This sounds like we could agree on it. I'm rather mediocre with a blade.
For the next week, you teach him all you think suitable about blade work, which is a surprisingly small amount. Still, he's a Master-of-Arms, he probably studied every weapon a good amount of time. As he is in his thirties, you can offer him the few tricks you learned about gaining speed in a fight. Older men might have had more trouble with it.
>I feel just as dexterous as I was at sixteen, when I first became a knight, again. Thank you for these great lessons, Sir. Now, let me teach you a thing or two...
He's set a week for training, too. Also, he gathered a few men for demonstration purposes.
>These guys will help us learn. Hearing about something is good, but actually seeing it tends to be better.

Roll me 1d20+2 for your learning success. Best of three.

Rolled 2 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>1132881

Rolled 6 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

And a second roll, so we can continue eventually.

Rolled 5 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>1132881

Rolled 7 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>1133394
Reroll

>>1133428
Want another reroll?

Rolled 16 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>1133576
How many do we have now?

>>1133867
Twenty-eight left. Also, writing.

The men are a valuable addition to the lessons. Basically working like chess, formations and strategy come to you quickly, followed by training routines and troop logistics.
>You did good, Sir Alphonse. Very good indeed.
the man tells you. You bow to thank him and give him a few compliments for his newly improved swordplay, too.
>Well, you know the bare minimum now, I guess. Your soldiers wouldn't hit themselves in the foot during a skirmish. But you have to keep training to perfect this.
the Master-of-Arms adds. You nod. Just like your swordplay, you have to keep going at it.
>Well, since I have no more to teach you, I doubt you would be interested in teaching me more?
you ask. He shrugs.
>There might be something I don't know yet. Why don't you make an offer and we'll see?
He's clearly in a good, slightly joking mood. Looks like he doesn't expect anything too big for further lessons. Or does he?
What is your counter-offer?
>We're above average in proficience in every weapon we know. There has to be one we can teach him about.
>Our name bears some weight. Maybe the prospect of indirectly doing a favour to your father would be a good motivation?
>Just offer him a favour to be cashed in some other time. This should do it.
>Keep up the joking mood and invite him for a night out. Drinking, laughing, fooling around. You doubt he takes enough time for himself.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1134099
>>Keep up the joking mood and invite him for a night out. Drinking, laughing, fooling around. You doubt he takes enough time for himself.

Alright, guys. It's 2:33 over here. Possibly time to go to bed. I'll resume this right after getting up. Until then, vote as much as you want.
Good night and thanks for playing.

>>1134099
>Keep up the joking mood and invite him for a night out. Drinking, laughing, fooling around. You doubt he takes enough time for himself.

>>1134099
>Keep up the joking mood and invite him for a night out. Drinking, laughing, fooling around. You doubt he takes enough time for himself.

>Well, I think I have just the right thing for you. I'll teach you to enjoy yourself and have a good time. We're going to need a few nights for this, though.
He laughs and nods.
>Sounds good. If we somehow disguised it as training of any kind, nobody would mind, right? Ariadne is pretty... assertive once it comes to training. She could do it day and night and pays everyone else's ability to do so no mind.
Well, this sounds like a thing you would have expected of her. She's on the training grounds before you, leaves after you do and doesn't seem to be taking many breaks. Which also would explain her reaction to losing a fight. After this much training, it must be extra hard to accept.
>Of course. I'll teach you about... nocturnal investigation of various things. Mostly women and drinks, but if nobody knows...
You share a good laughter before shaking hands in agreement.
The next days are going to be somewhat more difficult. Learning about something in the day is somewhat more difficult if you have to fight back the wine from the night before.

Roll me 2d20+1 for your success. Best of three.

Rolled 8, 6 + 1 = 15 (2d20 + 1)

>>1136409

Rolled 16, 3 + 1 = 20 (2d20 + 1)

And a second roll, so we can eventually continue.

Rolled 8, 4 + 1 = 13 (2d20 + 1)

>>1136409

Rolled 5, 6 + 1 = 12 (2d20 + 1)

>>1136409
Okay, I'll only do one reroll

Having a good time comes to you easily. Coping with the morning after not so much.
You feel like your training is slowed down considerably by this. Still, you manage to get by somehow.
Once the week is over, you are severely lacking sleep, some dignity after a few... antics at the pubs, but definitely no knowledge.
>I think I have taught you everything I could so far. I'm not quite sure how, but I did.
the Master-of-Arms says, also nursing a sizeable hangover.
>Now, you would need some actual experience. Maybe once you're back home, you might speak to your lord about it?
he suggests. You thank him for the lessons and leave for your quarters. Some sleep might be in order after this week.
After some more sleep and as much of a breakfast as your stomach would allow, you find yourself with six more weeks to your use.
How would you like to spend these?
>We need to get some kind of practice with leading troops. Even if it's only morning drills. Maybe you can convince someone in charge to let you practice? (Ariadne? Master-of-Arms? Someone else?)
>Never start what you don't intend to finish. Work on your anti-armor fighting style some more. (How long?)
>You had a lot of fun with the knights, learning about cavalry warfare. Why not attempt to master it?
>Work on mastering another weapon. Being good with a sword is nice, but what if your opponent requires something else? (What weapon?)
>Socialise. You will need contacts. However many you can manage to get.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1136910
>Never start what you don't intend to finish. Work on your anti-armor fighting style some more. (How long?)
1 and 1/2 weeks

>>1136974
Seconding.

>>1136974
>>1137227
Alright. Roll me 5 bonus dice (1d10). You're allowed to roll more than one, considering that we are like three people in total.

Rolled 4 (1d10)

>>1137295

Rolled 8 (1d10)

>>1137295

Rolled 3 (1d10)

>>1137295

Rolled 2 (1d10)

>>1137295

File: 60 - NVaeHcC.jpg (256 KB, 658x1000)

256 KB JPG

Rolled 10 (1d10)

>>1137295

Another ten days of training are going well, and you feel yourself making actual progress.
Hitting plate dead on isn't going to work most of the time, since a sword can't put up the pure piercing power that an arrow has. Still, if you get the angles just right, you might be able to push inside the plate instead of gliding to the side.
[Anti-plate swordsmanship mastery: 56/100]

>Interesting stuff you're doing there, funny guy.
a voice behind you says. Upon turning around, you recognize her as Ariadne, Lord Sang-Valois' daughter and second-in-command to the troops.
>Still, why don't you just use a mace? Or a broadsword like I do? It'll be way easier.
She throws back her hair and stares at you with a mocking look in her eyes.
>Oh, right. Because you couldn't show off with that tiny prick in your hand, right?
This girl clearly isn't trying to be nice. How should you react to this?
>Ignore her and go back to training.
>'Tiny pricks can be surprisingly powerful. Do you want me to show you'?
>'Listen, girl. I'm out here to train in peace. And I will, even if I have to knock you out before.'
>'Actually, you're not wrong. Now, please excuse me. I would like to continue my training.'
>Something else? (Write in)

File: 32 - AXCRypY.jpg (335 KB, 724x800)

335 KB JPG

>>1137454
>Something else? (Write in)
"I'm trying to develop my own technique to combat armor without sacrificing speed, Lady Ariadne." Proceed to into training.

>My fighting style tends to focus on speed, Lady Ariadne. Having to sacrifice it in order to beat armor doesn't suit me too much. Therefore, I am trying to find a way to utilise my strenghts for accomplishment of the task before me.
You hint a bow before turning back to the puppet, which you placed some armor on.
While you try out a few angles to pierce a breastplate, Ariadne's mockery is getting more and more... colourful. You may not be the sharpest tool in the shed once it comes to understanding people, especially women, but this is pretty obvious to you.
Ariadne wants to fight. Test her strength against the man responsible for her last, quite humiliating defeat. Maybe get revenge.
Still, asking for a spar would go against the massive amount of pride she happens to be burdened with.
Now, how do you want to react to this?
>Give her what she wants. Let's fight her. (Hold back? Give it your all? Something else?)
>We're a responsible adult, which includes not beating up people without a chance to stand up to us. Just continue ignoring her and go on with the training.
>She could ask about a lesson more directly. Let's offer it to her. This way, everyone is happy. She will learn a thing, you won't have to beat her up.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1137751
>We're a responsible adult, which includes not beating up people without a chance to stand up to us. Just continue ignoring her and go on with the training.
I know this should help her, but we're trying to git gud here, fuck

As Ariadne gets very creative with her words, you simply shrug and begin to work on the puppet again.
After a while, you hear an angry groan and some heavy footsteps distancing themselves from you. Looks like she has given up.
>Finally. Some peace and quiet. Maybe this will hold on for the next...
How long would you like to train?
>Until you got it down
>A set amount of time (how long?)
>We did enough at this already. We should switch to (what?)
>Something else? (Write in)

-----------------
Sorry for being this late with the update, I feel asleep.

>>1139919
>Until you got it down

Rolled 9, 8, 5, 2, 7, 8, 10, 7, 8, 10 = 74 (10d10)

Alright, let's see how long you take.

It takes you another two weeks to finally get where you wanted. But in the end, you managed to hit the angles right, while using the most powerful strikes available. With a feeling of accomplishment, you take the armor pieces, which you have taken a heavy toll on, and place them back in the box they came from.
[+Mastery: Anti-armor combat obtained]
Just beating armor works in various ways. But you decided on a special one. Which would that be?
>Utilising your speed always was a good choice. If you hit a piece of armor with the point of your blade and just enough speed, it works exactly like an arrow would.
>You're already incredibly fast. Sacrificing just a tiny bit of it to be able to deliver more powerful blows should work, too.
>Armor is slow and heavy. Usually. But once you get someone armored moving, you can use their massive momentum against them.

>Well, today is a good day. Definitely.
you say to yourself, as you look around on the training grounds. You've got two and a half weeks to go here.
How would you like to spend them?
>Train on mastering a weapon. There are a lot of great teachers around.
>Work on the riding combat further. Maybe you can master it before having to leave?
>The Master-of-Arms taught us quite a few useful things about commanding troops. But maybe Ariadne's style has some kind of advantage, too?
>Socialise (with what person?/group of persons?). You will need all the connections you can get.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1139964
>Utilising your speed always was a good choice. If you hit a piece of armor with the point of your blade and just enough speed, it works exactly like an arrow would.
>Work on the riding combat further. Maybe you can master it before having to leave?

The next post might take a while. I'll have to go grocery shopping and such. Until then, the votes remain open.

File: 1483721209560.png (513 KB, 2048x791)

513 KB PNG

>>1139964
>Utilising your speed always was a good choice. If you hit a piece of armor with the point of your blade and just enough speed, it works exactly like an arrow would.
>The Master-of-Arms taught us quite a few useful things about commanding troops. But maybe Ariadne's style has some kind of advantage, too?

File: Matilda-flanders_sm.png (69 KB, 225x255)

69 KB PNG

>>1139964
There hasn't been too much discussion, besides me insulting people when things don't go my way, but how is life treating you, QM? Is questing burning you out, shit going your way?

>>1140019
Well, so far not much important happened. I'm still searching for a new job, but before late summer, I doubt anything is going to happen about this.
Questing is nice, since it gives me something to do.
Also, we would need a last vote to decide between the final option. If someone would vote, that would be nice. Otherwise, I'll just roll a tie-breaker in a few minutes.

>>1140048
Change mine to the other vote.

Writing. Sorry for the delay. Stuff came up.

An arrow pierces plate more easily than a sword can. Mostly because it has a good amount of speed and a small point to strike with. Taking this as inspiration, you have managed to pierce armor with the point of your blade, should you get speed and angle right.
[Obtained: Sharpshooter. You can now fight heavily armored opponents without too much trouble.]

Learning how troops and strategy work is a nice thing. Still, there are many aspects which are less... theoretical. Motivating your men, inspiring them to do their best... you think this is a thing that Ariadne might be good at.
Therefore, you head over to the soldiers, who just finished morning practice. Now might be the perfect moment to approach Ariadne.
How would you like to do this?
>Just approach her and ask nicely. Let's keep it simple.
>Ariadne is kind of... different from other people. Maybe you can mock her into teaching you?
>She's a knight. You're a knight. Let's challenge her to a duel and make a bet.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1140305
>She's a knight. You're a knight. Let's challenge her to a duel and make a bet.

>>1140305
>She's a knight. You're a knight. Let's challenge her to a duel and make a bet.

Taking up position near the training field, you begin repeating your armor piercing routine, waiting for Ariadne to notice.
>Oh, did you give up on piercing plate, funny guy? Or why is the puppet not wearing any of it?
she calls out to you. Well, this surely went even faster than you expected. You take a deep breath and take a few more mockeries, until you finally snap. Or act like you did.
>Lady Ariadne! For way too long did I just ignore your indignified behaviour against myself, out of respect for your great father. But I fear you have crossed a final line.
You walk up to her and hit her in the face with one of your leather gauntlets.
>Hereby, I challenge you to a duel, Ariadne Sang-Valois!
After the initial surprise about the sudden effect of her mockeries, Ariadne nods and grins.
>Accepted, funny guy. I'll show you how it's done.
She isn't wearing any kind of leather on her body, not to mention any fabric you could see. Therefore, you have to dodge a retaliation slap with her plate gauntlets. As it slightly touches a strand of hair, you smile and bow.
>Please. Let's wait until the fight begins, before hurting each other.
Ariadne draws her broadsword without any further negotiation of rules, so you just draw your sword and raise your shield.
>How about a little bet, Lady Ariadne? It would make this way more interesting, wouldn't it?
She ponders the thought for a second before nodding.
>Alright. What are you ready to lose to me, funny guy?
she asks. Well, you had something in mind. But how should you phrase it?
>I am interested in your ability to lead troops. Should I win, you will teach me. Should you win, I could teach you about swordplay, if you would like that. (Keep it simple. Her head is clear, the fight is fair.)
>Let's say... I win and you do what I tell you for a week. You win and I do what you want me to, Mylady. (Add in a suggestively raised eyebrow. She will be kind of distracted by this.)
>I live for the heat of fighting. So do you. Ariadne Sang-Valois, will you marry me upon my victory? (Mocks her, will probably distract her during the fight. Still be ready to deal with possible consequences.)
>Oh, forget it. Let's just settle for a knight's pride.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1140531
>Let's say... I win and you do what I tell you for a week. You win and I do what you want me to, Mylady. (Add in a suggestively raised eyebrow. She will be kind of distracted by this.)

>>1140531
>Let's say... I win and you do what I tell you for a week. You win and I do what you want me to, Mylady. (Add in a suggestively raised eyebrow. She will be kind of distracted by this.)

>Well, what about this? If I win, you do what I tell you for a week. You win and I do what you tell me to do for a week. Now, how does that sound, my fair lady?
you say, while raising an eyebrow. Ariadne seems baffled for a second, then shakes herself and nods eagerly. Looks like your plan worked.
>You're on, funny guy! Can't wait to have you clean my boots after a day out!
Both of you take your positions and the various knights and soldiers out on the training grounds surround you, eagerly awaiting this fight.
She might be strong and well-armored, but due to the fact that you are way more experienced than her, as well as the fact that you are much faster, this fight should be yours without too much trouble.
But how would you like to fight? (Sucessfully distracted, all difficulties lowered.)
>Let's keep it simple. No fancy stuff, just old fashioned fighting. [Automatic success]
>Let's show off a bit. Might impress her and will surely impress the audience. [Easy difficulty]
>This girl needs her head set straight. Completely humiliate her. [Medium difficulty]
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1140606
>Let's show off a bit. Might impress her and will surely impress the audience. [Easy difficulty]

>>1140606
>Let's show off a bit. Might impress her and will surely impress the audience. [Easy difficulty]

>>1140613
>>1140618
Alright, roll me 1d20+2. Best of three.

Rolled 3 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>1140620

Rolled 9 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>1140620

Rolled 15 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>1140620
And a third one, so we can continue.

If you leave, people will remember you. Still, you can't always decide what they will remember you as. Still, you might give them a little push in the right direction. Therefore, you decide to flaunt your abilities a bit.
Before Ariadne can't even raise her sword properly, you have already charged at her, decking her with a series of blows. She can barely parry one of the blows, the others leave little dents in her armor. You didn't intend to pierce her armor, but the training seems to pay off anyway.
With an elegant step to the side, you avoid her broadsword and point your sword at her elbow. Quickly, you jump forward, entering her armor at one side, leaving it at the other.
This wasn't a strike completely without risk. Still, you managed not to hurt her in any way, as you can see upon retrieving your sword.
The piece of armor you cut off falls to the ground with a clank. Both Ariadne and the audience seem greatly astonished by your display.
>Damn, how did you...? Not bad, funny guy.
Ariadne says after partially regaining her focus.
With a roar, she charges at you, cleaving horizontally with her sword. With a quick roll to the side, you avoid her blade and bring down your blade on the inside of her knee. Again, the metal dents ever so slightly, giving Ariadne a bit of unfortunate momentum and making her fall over.
You step up to her and set your blade on her neck.
>Now, you might want to surrender. Or not. 'Property of Alphonse de l'Etoile' is a nice thing to have written down on your neck.
Immediately, Ariadne throws away her sword, raising her hands as much as her position allows her.
>Alright, alright. You won, funny guy. Now, what do you want from me?

Well what do you want from her? Write in. Get creative.

>>1140696
We want all her experience as second in command under master of arms

>>1140696
I live for the heat of fighting. So do you. Ariadne Sang-Valois, will you........................ teach me how to lead troops?

>I live for the heat of battle, just like you do. But more often than not, simply being a good fighter isn't enough, out there on the battlefield.
you say. Ariadne doesn't react.
>The men around you, they are what matters. Lead them to victory and bring them home alive. I know some things about leading troops already, but I think you could teach me a thing or two. Why don't we start with something like this?
Ariadne nods. At least you think it is a nod from what laying on the ground face down allows.
After she brought herself back to her feet, she shakes her head in disbelief.
>I'm not even a Master-of-Arms, because I happen to have been born a woman. I'm not half as good as a fighter than he is. And he's asking me for advice? You're a funny one, Alphonse.
She seems to have memorized your name. Still, you're unsure if that's a good sign.
Looks like you won a week of training. How do you want to spend it?
>Learn eagerly. You need to know everything. [Automatic success at learning]
>Throw in the occasional chat and break. Get to know her over some activities on the side. [Easy roll for learning]
>This girl is... special. Let's try to be a bit more flirty than usual. Maybe we can still learn something on the side? [Medium-hard roll for learning]
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1140875
>Learn eagerly. You need to know everything. [Automatic success at learning]

>>1140875
>Throw in the occasional chat and break. Get to know her over some activities on the side. [Easy roll for learning]

Alright, guys. I'll have to call it for tonight, since I have an interview tomorrow morning. Nothing great, but at least work for a bit of time.
Until then, feel free to continue voting.
Good night and thanks for playing.

>>1140875
>>Learn eagerly. You need to know everything. [Automatic success at learning]

The girl is special.... Sooo worth it

Let's do this

You decide to learn eagerly. After all, this might become important somtimes.
>So, you already learned all this stuff already? Then why do you even ask me anymore?
Annabelle say in an obviously confused manner.
>Well, I have watched you training the troops before. Your style was very different from your superior's. You were more... vocal.
Annabelle looks a bit annoyed. Seems like she doesn't like to be reminded of that.
>Honestly, I just do it to let out my emotions. Anger, annoyance... but sometimes satisfaction, too. For some reason it seems to work with the troops.
This is an interesting way to see it. For the next few days, Annabelle has taken aside a few troops and demonstrates her way to keep the troop's morale and eagerness to learn up. Sometimes, raising the eagerness to learn simply means beating up anyone who doesn't do so fast enough, but you manage to learn a few things about motivation and being an example to your troop.
>Whatever they do, I do too. Sometimes more than they do. For some reason, they like to see that they aren't the only ones doing something.
Four days have passed, once Annabelle claps her hands.
>Well, this is pretty much everything I know. I hope it was useful. Still, what do we do with the remaining three days that I am... a sla- indebted to you?
she asks. Well, that's a good question. How would you like to spend these days?
>You're not sure she's already humble enough. Maybe have her clean your boots and such.
>Teach her about swordplay. She should like it.
>You doubt she takes off any time in the week. Maybe you should have her take a break and spend some time relaxing?
>There has to be something more she can teach you. (What?)
>Something else? (Write in)

------------------------------
I'll be posting an update a few times today, I guess. I don't have the time for a regular session. Sorry about that.

>>1142707
>Annabelle

>You doubt she takes off any time in the week. Maybe you should have her take a break and spend some time relaxing?

>>1142707
>You doubt she takes off any time in the week. Maybe you should have her take a break and spend some time relaxing?

>>1142707
>>You're not sure she's already humble enough. Maybe have her clean your boots and such.

>>1142955
>>1142967
>>1142707
Can I vote for both of these?

>>1142969
choose nigga

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>>1142988
You're not QM, kike. fug ov

>>1142844
I honestly made this mistake like... three times? I meant Ariadne all the way through. Is there any way to correct it?
Also, writing.

>Tell me, Lady Ariadne... how long are you out here each day?
you ask her.
>I usually start at dawn, sometimes a little earlier. Then, I train until the sun goes down, after which I oversee some smaller repairs that have to be made. Repairing some training targets and such.
You nod understandingly.
>And do you take the sundays off or something? What about breaks for lunch or something?
Everything is as expected, you notice as Ariadne tells you about her daily schedule. No days off, a quick breakfast, if any at all... This might be the reason for the impressive things served at dinner. It might be the only time in a day when Ariadne actually eats something.
>Honestly, I admire your dedication. Still, dedication won't help you, should you collapse due to having worked yourself too hard.
Ariadne tries to protest, but you will have nothing of it.
>Hear me out, please. Tell me, did you ever see a smith working?
Ariadne nods, but you can see confusion on her face.
>Three hits strike the iron with full force, forming it into the thing it's destined to be. The fourth strike hits besides it, with not enough force to dent anything. Do you know why smith happen to do this?
Ariadne nods again.
>So the joints in their hands don't get damaged. Striking continuously would wear them down quickly. After maybe a year or two, they would be unable to work anymore.
You smile.
>See? It's the same with your training. If you don't take enough breaks, you will hurt yourself. Give you lasting damage, possibly. Please, take off a day or two a week. Not for me, but to ensure that you will be able to wield a weapon for decades to come.
Ariadne almost seems convinced, but happens to come up with another statement nearly immediately.
>And what should I do during these days? Wear frilly dresses like a proper lady?
Looks like you will find some kind of pass-time for her. What would you suggest?
>Going on hunts. It's a welcome change of pace. Also, getting to kill something might just be the right thing for her.
>Quite a few people like to grab a pint of ale or something the like occasionally. If you took her to a pub, she might possibly take a liking to it, too.
>Thanks for the idea. Since you still owe me three days, why don't we spend these having you try on some of these? You might find one you like.
>A good book once in a while keeps your mind sharp. And you will need a sharp mind on the battlefield.
>You could always spend your time at church. After all, one should try to be as close to the Lord Above at all times, right?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1145547
>Going on hunts. It's a welcome change of pace. Also, getting to kill something might just be the right thing for her.

>>1145547
>>Going on hunts. It's a welcome change of pace. Also, getting to kill something might just be the right thing for her.

>>1145547
>Going on hunts. It's a welcome change of pace. Also, getting to kill something might just be the right thing for her.
Qm, why you want alfonso to dick ARiadne so much?

>>1145668
>>1145769
Alright, writing.
>>1145847
A last attempt to appease all the Ariadnefags, who got pretty... upset over Jean choosing Annabelle. Or not. Who knows?

>>1145880
Personally I think they were both great women and I wish there was some way we could have pleased both but that shit ain't happening in 1Xth century France.

At the very least we can have Alphonse make her good enough in combat to fulfil her promise to us without dating, then she can at least stay close to both of our characters...

>>1145902
Actually, it's like 11th or 12th century france in this point in time, if I remember correctly. People weren't THAT RELIGIOUS until like the 14th century and beyond

>>1145912
It depends but yeah, at the very least they won't be happy to it...or anything positive generally.


It might also make us less popular with the lower classes, thanks to their stronger faith in god in general.

>>1145880
>Ariadnefags, who got pretty... upset over Jean choosing Annabelle.

As one of those people, shipping Alfonso with ariadne pisses me off . We lost out on her because fuckers kept trying to ride that other lord guys dick and gave up on her like bitches.
Didn't help that by winning combat roles we got the exact opposite of what we wanted by beating her and failing to get her as our armsmaster.
>>1145902
>At the very least we can have Alphonse make her good enough in combat to fulfil her promise to us without dating
Pretty much this, having her as our armsmaster would be the best back up plan to fall on at this point.

>>1145929
Bros before hoes, anon

>>1145934
strangers we just met and didn't instantly dislike like the fuck that got tried by the king you mean.
fucking dick riders

>>1145940
>>1145929
Actually I must disagree with you on a point; we did not just "give up" on dating her.


We made the logical decision, that in face of having no skill at management or such, to take the science-logistics waifu rather than miss fighter-Mcwaifu.

The decision to help the other lord was done to help our relations with him and because it wouldn't hurt to try. Any how it actually improved her opinion of us even more so if you don't remember her reaction; after being beaten and finding out he only succeeded because we trained him. A mix of surprise and impressed.

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>>1145953
>>1145940
Just fuck both of them, desu. They are sisters so they won't even mind sharing, and then we can cross breed with with each other and activate eugenics

>>1145970
I would point out that dating more than 1 person was an activity of many nobles but it wasn't exactly...popular with many.

It will hurt relations with their father unless we can promise him they will live well and their children too. Which considering that we would technically receive his families entire inheritance of land and money...would be quite possible...but I doubt he would agree unless we can get the best relations possible this side of having a gay romance...

>>1145980
We can just kill him and then, when they come to us grieving, we sex them both up.

>>1145953
We did give up, bullshit it was the logical decision.
Marrying the other sister would have instantly made us the heir to her lands when her father died. we would have inherited lands, riches, the teachers that taught the "logistics waifu" and an army that would have made getting our lands back so much easier without having to wait 2 years for marriage.
We gave all that up for "bros over hos" bullshit.

>>1145970
I want to say the QM wouldn't let us but the way we've been leveling up and getting crit rolls, i have reasonable doubt.

>>1145985
>broes over hoes bullshit
This is why the world is going to shit. People like you.

>I think you would look admirable in a frill dress. Still, why don't you go on hunts or something during your day off? It's more relaxing than training all day, but you still get to kill something.
you say. Ariadne ponders the thought for a second.
>Actually... why not? I think I might try it sometimes. Thanks for the idea.
she answers.
>I think we could as well go on one tomorrow, right? If we could arrange everything we need until then, of course.
Ariadne nods.
>Easily done. Some fitting weaponry, maybe a cart to transport our catches, some reinforcements... I should be able to arrange that.
She hurries off to get everything settled immediately. Damn, this girl really needs to learn to take a break occasionally.
The next day, you ride out to the nearest forest.
>My father goes here to hunt quite frequently, so there is only a... basic population of animals in here. We could continue to the next forest, but that's another two hours of riding.
Ariadne informs you. Looks like these woods are well kept to.
What do you want to do?
>Let's stay here. We should be able to find something interesting, right? Nothing big, just enough to have fun.
>Let's continue to the other forest. If we found something immediately, we might make it back to the castle before the night.
>The other forest sounds promising. Also, Ariadne would probably prefer to hunt something big and impressive. Staying outside for a night won't kill you, right?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1145999
>The other forest sounds promising. Also, Ariadne would probably prefer to hunt something big and impressive. Staying outside for a night won't kill you, right?

>>1145985
Except now we have a father in law who is in debt to us and a fellow lord who actually thinks highly of us. By your strategy we lose his support and thus a portion of our possible future holdings and such.


Consider the fact that, assuming that he has no kids, the lord's lands will return to either the king or his family. In his case we know not of his family, so we will assume the king get's them.

Now the king likes us and the lord likes us, so it is entirely possible they will grant us these freed lands which otherwise would have fallen through our fingers.


As to the father's support, he loves us greatly already and won't exactly avoid supporting us so your point there is quite false.


I would argue that hopping to inherit those lands is illogical, as that is too far into the future to be important in the time frame of this quest. Or at the very least too far away to be important for quite some time.


Still, we can agree to disagree, no?

Wow, there's honestly discussion in here again. I thought this quest was doomed to being irrelevant forever. Thank you guys for your interest in this.
>>1145902
>>1145912
>>1145929
>>1145940

>>1146009
Give us polygamy, or give us death

>>1146009
Of course there is discussion, waifu's are like some sort of magnet for it.


It also helps your player base agrees in most cases, on decisions that don't regard women.

>>1145999
>Let's continue to the other forest. If we found something immediately, we might make it back to the castle before the night.

>>1146009
You pressed the waifu button and then you kicked the beehive of old grudges.

>>1146011
Make the right decisions and roll the right dice. Just as always.
>>1146023
Too bad this doesn't work all the time, since you're engaged already. Maybe I should throw in some new waifus and let you abuse the fact that there is no clerical person around to condemn it?

>>1146057
Once we're married, Jean will only have sex with other women if our waifu allows it. He is a virtuous man.

>>1146058
We could easily get a cleric to look the other way...assuming we can find one addicted to alcohol or with another vice like being left handed.


>>1146058
True, and there will always be a open spot in the bed if she wants to join...

>>1146060
>being left handed
You fucking heretical cunt. Get the fuck out of here with that satanist bullshit before I call the king on you. Fucking bastard, I curse your seventh grandfather. We are good folk who simply wish to have sex with more women than just our wife.

>>1146065
I want to make Jean ambidextrous and write with his left hand so that he can fuck with people...

>>1145999
>The other forest sounds promising. Also, Ariadne would probably prefer to hunt something big and impressive. Staying outside for a night won't kill you, right?

>Honestly, what's a hunt good for if you just waste a day for a single duck or something? The other forest sounds good. Assuming we've got tents and such.
you say, making Ariadne nod eagerly.
>Absolutely. Let's go there. I already made sure about tents and some rations.
Two hours after, you arrive at another forest, this one looking bigger and less often visited.
>Okay, men! Set up camp, while I go searching for any interesting tracks.
Ariadne calls out and the soldiers she brought with her immediately react. Only a few minutes later, the tents stand in a half circle, with a fire pit in the middle.
>It's going to be cold tonight, I guess. Better be safe, right?
Ariadne claims, making you respond with affirmation.
Then, she vanishes into the woods. Some time later, she returns.
>I found various kinds of tracks. Boars, deer and what I guess would be wolves. Since our little bet expires in two days, it's still up to you to decide what to go for. So?
Ariadne reports. What will be your choice?
>Boars. Good meat, reasonably usable pelts, a good challenge to kill.
>Deer. Elusive, but only average fighters with good meat, fur and built-in trophies.
>The wolves. Let's take up the challenge to make these woods safer. A good fight for a good fur.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1146116
>Deer. Elusive, but only average fighters with good meat, fur and built-in trophies.

>>1146116
>Deer. Elusive, but only average fighters with good meat, fur and built-in trophies.

>>1146067
You absolute madman

>I think deer sound good. Everything else could hurt us pretty badly. And we're quite far away from any kind of medical attention, right?
you say, making Ariadne nod.
>I've brought some minor medical supplies, but nothing to help with being torn to shreds by wolves. So, you might be right.
she answers, not completely happy about this yet.
>Also, they make good trophies, don't they?
you ask, finally convincing Ariadne.
>Sure. I want a massive stag to hang the antlers over my bed. Let's do this!
she calls out, taking the first steps towards the forest.
>You two stay and watch the camp, you two grab a bow and arrows and follow us!
Ariadne orders the soldiers. Well, this is going to be interesting.
Roll me 1d20 for your hunting success. Best of three.

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>1146141

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Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>1146141

Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>1146141

The hunt goes reasonably well. Sadly, you don't manage to find any stags, but still take down two does.
>So much about my trophy. Still, these don't taste too bad if prepared right.
Ariadne says, carrying one of the deer over her shoulders. You knew she was strong, but carrying something like this in heavy armor is no small feat.
>If prepared right? I didn't know you could cook, Lady Ariadne.
you say, making her chuckle.
>A bit, yeah. Kind of funny how nobody expects anything womanly from me, just because I wear armor and beat up a few guys occasionally.
You smirk and ask her about sewing and other more womanly feats, resulting in her punching your arm. She didn't do it with full force, but still is strong enough to make you reconsider asking her about it.
Back at camp, you cut the meat into pieces and hang them over the fire to smoke them. Taking them back to La-Roche first would possibly make them go bad.
>Well, this surely was fun. Maybe I should actually do this in my newly found free time.
Ariadne says. You answer with a simple nod. She really should take some time off. Even if it is to do some other kind of physical activity.
The night comes and Ariadne lets her eyes wander over the camp.
>One...two...three...four...five tents. Five? Albert, we are lacking a tent! After all, there are six of us. What should we do now?
Albert stutters some excuse about not knowing any specific numbers, which Ariadne just wipes aside.
>You knew I still owe this guy. I wouldn't be here without him. Also, you knew that the four of you would come. Planning, Albert. Ever heard of it?
She seems somewhat upset at the poor planning. You should better find a solution before she beats him up too badly.
What should you do?
>Your tent seems big enough for two people. Why don't you just share it with (who?)
>I'll just see if I can somehow fit myself into one of the other tents besides someone else. I'm somewhat slim in frame, so it should probably work.
>I'll just make myself a bed in the cart. With some preparations, it should work, right?
>Shouldn't one of us be on guard duty anyway, making this number work?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1146205
>Shouldn't one of us be on guard duty anyway, making this number work?

>>1146205
>Shouldn't one of us be on guard duty anyway, making this number work?

>Well, shouldn't one of us be on guard duty anyway?
you begin, before Ariadne interrupts you.
>Trick question! One of us should be on... oh. Right.
once she realizes what you just said, she sits down again, seemingly surprised at your correct answer.
An awkward silence ensues, since none of the men really know what to say.
What do you want to do?
>Announce which part of watch you would like. The ensuing discussion will definitely end the silence.
>Talk with (who?) about (what?)
>Make basic conversation with the men. Anything to break this silence.
>Start singing (what kind of song?)
>Keep quiet. Somebody else will do something, right?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1146249
>Make basic conversation with the men. Anything to break this silence.

>>1146249
>Make basic conversation with the men. Anything to break this silence.

>>1146249
>Make basic conversation with the men. Anything to break this silence.

You try to make basic conversation with the men, but nobody really is overcoming the awkwardness.
Finally, Ariadne jumps up and proclaims to be taking the first watch, leaving the fire and taking up patrolling up and down the camp.
>I said something dumb, did I?
you ask one of the men, who shrugs.
>Not really. But still... Your answer was right. But Lady Ariadne is... weird sometimes. Pay it no mind.
You heed his advice and continue to chat with the men a little, before heading to bed.
Slightly before waking up time, you are woken by one of the men. Looks like you got the last watch. You didn't talk about it too much anymore. Might be the usual routine.
After some more time to make sure the meat is properly smoked, you pack up your things and begin to head back to castle La-Roche.
During the travel, the same awkward silence ensues again. What do you want to do?
>Challenge Ariadne to a riding contest to lighten the mood.
>Ask Ariadne about yesterday evening. She was kind of weird, after all. Difficult
>Sing a marching song with the soldiers.
>Just keep quiet. No reason to make unnecessary words, right?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1146391
>Sing a marching song with the soldiers.

>>1146391
>Just keep quiet. No reason to make unnecessary words, right?

>>1146391
>Sing a marching song with the soldiers.

Sorry for ending without warning, guys. I fell asleep surprisingly.
I'll make a new thread sometimes today, I think. After I finished all the tasks I have to fulfill today.

>>1148436
Oh, a picture of someone I don't know. For no apparent reason. Mind to explain?