The Children of Bohat III

Sir Heldris talks to the Prophet of the Mother

The Salt Knight plays a Game of Chance

Perilake confirms a Shepherd's Story

A Life of many Thorns

Afternoon of the 2nd Riverday of Petals

Referee

The inn keeper approaches, a middle aged man with greying hair and a leather apron that spans over his barrel chest, precariously balancing a carafe of water and wine and plates with the meat pies. Without much enthusiasm he says.. “Welcome Sir Knights! If you need anything, a room to stay. “ he casually picks the leaf off Milos' hair” a bath or a game of chance, Pedrag will be at your service. Or are noble Knights such as you stay at Lady Wendela's house?”

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

Milos sheepishly runs his hands through his hair in search of more wayward leaves. A few more fall upon the table in front of him. "I am like a crimson maple in autumn" he says with a small laugh. Then he grabs a meat pie and bites into it as he rocks back in his chair."So where shall we stay then? Inn or manor?"

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz stretches into a more relaxed position in his chair. "I will be staying here. The Lady may have her hands full with Sir Perilake's clan."

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

Milos finishes his pie and rises "as will I then, but first I will seek out this bath that so many are kindly recommending." His hand grazes Anastaz's shoulder lightly as he passes behind him toward the back of the inn.

Ser Perilake, The Gilded Knight

After speaking with Inga, Perilake joins his brothers in the Inn and explains his plan. When his son goes to sleep, Perilake will be beneath the bed, sword in hand. Inga in the other room. "My only regret my friends is that I will not be able to join you as you patrol the village in the evening, in case this miscreant targets another child. But in the meantime, perhaps we should speak to some of the villagers. I fear age has dulled Lady Wendela's sharpness, though not her tongue."

Referee

Pedrag brings a cup and food for Ser Perilake, while Milos disappears into a back room. From the town square you hear hammering and some laughter. The inn keeper returns to his game of dice at the bar with an old-timer who enjoys an early mug of ale. After some time an older woman quietly crosses the taproom from the kitchen with a steaming kettle. She is slightly limping and has turned her face away from you. Before you can get a good look at her she has already entered the washingroom.

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

Sir Milos' face emerging from the surface of soapy water. He is sitting up in a large wooden tub in the washroom of the Inn. He shakes his head and sprays water across the earthen floor. Then slumps back with a sigh and stares at the ceiling. The door creaks open and an old woman ambles in holding a large kettle with rags to protect her hands. “Since you’ve been in so long, I thought you might be wanting a little more hot water, Sir Knight.” He rests his chin on the edge of the tub and beams a contented smile at her. “You are a perfect godsend and I am forever in your debt.” As the old woman pours the water into the tub near his feet, the Fox Knight regards her quietly and notices strange bruises on her arms and a red gash on her temple. His brow furrows and his smile drifts toward sadness and concern. Softly he asks “Mother, how have you come to bear these many wounds?”

The Oak & Well

Referee

The woman pulls the sleeves over her arms and looks away - hiding the right side of her face where her eye is grotesquely larger and hanging lower than her good eye. “It is nothing my lord.” She stands still in her awkward position her head tilted to the side waiting for you to dismiss her. Her voice is very soft and barely audible.

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz cocks his head slightly as he watches the other knight leave. He strokes his chin for a moment. Looking back to his brothers, he says, "I'm sure Avert will be safe in his father's care, and the others will be safe in ours."

Finishing his meal, he rises and walks to the innkeep with his dice. He asks, "May I... join your game?"

Referee

Pedrag looks up and nods.”We are playing Hermit. Winner keeps the dice, loser chops wood. You're in?” The dice set is made from antlers with the pips carved and filled with brightly coloured resin. The old villager sets down his pipe with unsteady hands. He is ancient and when he turns to you his milky blue eyes stare at nothing.”Of course I won't chop anything ...” he wheezes, ”... my good for nothing grandson will … or his son if the other one is already dead... “ He cackles, exposing is toothless gums. “Are you with the minstrels or with the fine folk?”

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz nods at Pedrag, and says to the old man, "The fine folk, though it can be difficult to tell the two apart."

Referee

"Aye, they all make up stories … well, most of the time.” He looks pensive for a moment reaching for his mug.”Although I once served a real Knight.” Pedrag rolls his eyes and sighs quietly. “We were in the hills … back in ...” He turns to Pedrag. “That was before your time, son. You were still up in the North.” He lifts is mug with great effort and drinks eagerly. ”For month sheep were disappearing and the good mayor had pleaded Swanstone for help … and the very fine Lady Bianca sent her best: Ulrich's son if you believe it and he was with the Golden Knight. And I showed him the way to the old burial ground, you know where Aloisia now has her church of the bastard child”. He cackles again and smacks his lips. “Very fine Knights both of them and I hope I will still be alive when Sir Zoltan finally … well … I'm not getting younger … but some day he will finally sit on that throne.”

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

A ghost of a smile creeps into the corner of the Salt Knight's mouth. "Indeed. And I'm told Sir Zoltan wields Zuraw even now."  

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

“Ah” He looks down into the water and stirs it slightly with his hand. “Can I tell you a secret?” he says in a whisper. “My fellow knights tease me about being slovenly and the truth is that as a child, I did not like to bathe. But my gran devised a game for us to play during bath time that brought me to love it. She called it Roses and Thorns. We would each take turns sharing something beautiful that happened to us that day and later something hard. Would you indulge my nostalgia for childish things and play with me now Ružica? I’m sure Pedrag wouldn’t miss you for a few moments. You could sit on that little stool behind me and we wouldn’t see each other, just hear our voices. I could go first. Yes?" There is a silence as she considers the request. The slow drip of water from Milos’ beard makes a delicate echoing sound in the washroom.

Dimly lit common room of the Oak & Well

Referee

Ružica touches her mouth as if to suppress a moan and looks in panic over her shoulder at the door. Then she turns slowly around, limps over to the stool and sits down. “If … If it is not too much ... “she says hesitantly. “If it pleases my lord I would rather … listen first.” She sits stock-still and waits.

  

Sir Heldris the Dove Knight

Heldris steps out of the inn to take a breath of fresh air. He walks pensively towards the town's well and stands for a moment to listen to the woman preaching about the Child. Looking around to gauge the interest of the townsfolk

Referee

When you leave the inn you see the white-haired woman still standing at the well, the two villagers still with her listening attentively. They are talking quietly and you only hear fragments of their conversation. “The prophecy … Don't worry … terrors of the night ...” On the other side a fat old man is struggling while assembling a booth from wooden beams and the canvas of the wagon. The man has a thin moustache and wears a patched green tunic and worn out boots with straw filling the many holes. An old woman sitting on the bench under the oak shouts obviously unhelpful advice over the square while the other elders next to her nudge each other and laugh ignoring the preacher entirely.

Sir Heldris the Dove Knight

The Dove Knight approaches the woman and the two villagers, making no effort to hide the fact that has caught a few of their words. "Good evening. I am glad indeed we don't have to worry, since the Night brings terrible things with her dreams." He turns to the woman, with genuine inquisitiveness: "What does the Child preach to us now at the gates of Dusk?"

Referee

The woman looks at you with hooded eyes for a moment, bows and crosses her hands before her chest. Her hair is long and greasy and although her white tunic is patched and dusty around her neck she wears a sigil on a golden chain. She touches the arm of one of the peasants. ”You may leave now with the blessing of the Child. I see you both on Skyday for mass.” She takes a step back to get a better look at you. “Sir Heldris I believe? Fear not Dove Knight, the Mother keeps us safe at night and if not ....”She smiles and her eyes light up”... if terror strikes at night we rejoice!” She raises her voice over the laughter of the peasants sitting on the bench. “For it is written that the coming of the Child is near if vassals tremble in their dreams, if terror strikes and all is still.”

Sir Heldris the Dove Knight

The Dove Knight smiles and bows, “I can tell you one thing: if and when terror strikes, not everyone will be still.” Then, in a more serious tone, ”but I do hope you speak the truth, my lady, when you say that the Mother will protect us all. I think we’ll need her in the days to come…” Heldris looks around him, to the laughing people on the square, to the old cursing woman idling on a bench. “People don’t seem to pay you heed, but I think you speak from the heart… you speak from faith.” He lowers his voice, almost in a conspiratory whisper. “Speaking of children, something seems amiss in Bohat recently…” he watches her closely for any reaction, “something that is not what is supposed to be.”

Referee

The woman smiles. “The world is like a broken cup and we cannot mend it. We pour into the cup and we keep on pouring: should we be surprised that it cannot hold the water? Should we be surprised that the Realm is divided, that the strong take what they will and the weak suffer? Until the world is healed … “ She goes on with her sermon but doesn't mention the children only the Child that will heal the world.  

Referee

“I once saw Sir Zigmunt with his sword.” The old man finishes his drink and slides it over to Pedrag. “A mountain of a man. Would have been a fine King, a fine King indeed … a crying shame how he ended.” Pedrag grabs the mug form the old man and fills it at the barrel behind him. The barrel reads Sisters of the Ryba. “Old Benno loves to brag about his role in slaying the eight-legged beast. Without me the Knights would still wander the hills.” He imitates Benno's thin old man voice. Both laugh and Benno doesn't seem to mind the barb. You play for a while and win almost all rounds. At the end Pedrag reads out the numbers Benno rolled but adds as many as to make him not be last. He winks at you. “Well ...”. Pedrag shakes his head and hands over the dice. “You earned them fair and square. I guess it's time for me to sharpen the axe.”

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz shrugs. "I'll take a few swings myself if you'd tell me a thing or two about this town. My companions feel the children are a little strange."

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

Milos slides further down into the water and begins: “This morning we rode hard toward Bohat, across the moors, the sun was breaking through the clouds in dazzling rays. I looked to my left and the light reflected on the golden armor of Sir Perilake. And on the right, Sir Anastaz looked toward the horizon with a calm that settled my heart even in the midst of the thunder of hooves below me. I felt so alive Ružica, and also a part of something bigger than myself. In my right place. It was a passing moment of wonder. Now your turn. Tell me a rose that bloomed in your world…”

Referee

Ruzica makes a soft sound that you fail to interpret. She begins hesitatingly first but with every word her voice becomes stronger until in the end she almost sings. “ My world is barren like the moors in winter and winter never passes and no roses grow. But I love listening to stories and when I was a little girl I went with my father to the castle for Kindlemass to sell the candles they so desperately need. On the night of Kindlemass we stood at the lake and they send little boats onto the lake each with a candle and although it was cold and dark and no one … and we were standing behind the nobles and they gave praise to the dead and told their stories. Oh it was so cold and I cried and cried and yet my heart was full.” You feel her shift a little and fall silent again.

Kind old Ružika

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

Milos allows a small silence to punctuate the transition, then says: “My gran would say now: the roses have been spoken, the passing blossoms of beauty in our lives honored, may they continue to bless us. And now the thorns.”

He lets a long sigh out and begins. “I was playing with the children of Bohat while one named Biljana watched from afar. Her eyes were hard and flinty, lacking the brilliant light of childhood wonder. She challenged me to a duel and we fought with branches but her intent was deadly serious, her movements precise and uncannily swift. I parried her attacks and searched for any trace of childhood innocence in her demeanor but found none. My heart recognized that she was under the spell of some dark influence but I could not pierce through to the child beneath it. I despair that she might not even be there anymore. I fear for the children of Bohat but cannot perceive the source of the affliction. It weighs heavy upon my soul. Now it is your turn. Share a thorn that draws your blood and brings you pain.”

Referee

Pedrag is taken aback. “You won the game Sir Knight, and I will take care of the wood.” Benno knocks out the pipe while Pedrag praises Bohat. ”We have a beautiful village, the richest dwelling in all of Barowia … “ and so on. Finally he addresses the concerns of your companions:” I don't know about the children being strange but their parents … I have spoken to Dunja, after her daughter allegedly … well bothered Ružica and the kind soul wouldn't talk about it so I paid the huntress a visit. She was clearly distraught.” Pedrag leans in. “Her daughter wasn't the same after she got lost in the woods. All of the villagers who we could spare went with her that day to search for Biljana but we couldn't find her. Three days later she was back home and Dunja wouldn't say no more, only that she had punished her daughter and that Ružica shouldn't worry.”

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

Milos allows a small silence to punctuate the transition, then says: “My gran would say now: the roses have been spoken, the passing blossoms of beauty in our lives honored, may they continue to bless us. And now the thorns.”

He lets a long sigh out and begins. “I was playing with the children of Bohat while one named Biljana watched from afar. Her eyes were hard and flinty, lacking the brilliant light of childhood wonder. She challenged me to a duel and we fought with branches but her intent was deadly serious, her movements precise and uncannily swift. I parried her attacks and searched for any trace of childhood innocence in her demeanor but found none. My heart recognized that she was under the spell of some dark influence but I could not pierce through to the child beneath it. I despair that she might not even be there anymore. I fear for the children of Bohat but cannot perceive the source of the affliction. It weighs heavy upon my soul. Now it is your turn. Share a thorn that draws your blood and brings you pain.”

Referee

She speaks slowly and the fire that had burned in her before is gone: “Of the thorns there are many but I will tell you what you want to hear not what I want to tell. You want to hear about Bijlana and Marko and little Saša who ran after me and teased me and threw stones at me. What of it? They are children, mean and … but at least they're honest. The pitiful glance, the flickering gaze, those who look away in ill concealed disgust hurt so much more.”

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

Without looking up from the tub, Milos says in a sober voice “The thorns are spoken then and the game is ended. I thank you for your company, your indulgence, and your trust. It is true that I asked you to speak of something you would rather not have spoken of. For that I am in your debt. If you need a boon of me in the future, you should ask it.” Milos stares out across the bath water in thought as the old woman quietly withdraws from the washroom. 

Ser Perilake, The Gilded Knight

The Salt Knight's conversation is disturbed briefly as a hand clasps down on old Benno's shoulder.

"By the River, is that Benno?" Sir Perilake smiles warmly down at the old man, having returned from a tense conversation with Lady Inga. "I am glad to see you my old friend." Benno splutters on his pipe, and then quickly sets it down and begins to rise.

"My Lord -" Perilake puts out a hand and laughs

"Please Benno, sit. I did not mean to interrupt your conversation with Sir Anastasz, and the honour is mine." Perilake nods to the others at the table. "This is a good man. I swear, without his help then Zoltan and I would be wandering thes hills of Bohat to this day!"

Benno blinks in surprise, then tries to suppress a grin as he sees the men at the table gawp around him. Perilake clasps his hand, then nods to the others and to his brother knight. "I will leave you to your game, my friends."

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz flashes a small grin at Perilake corroborating the old man's story. "I must be away as well. Thank you for everything, Pedrag, Benno." He tips his head and joins Perilake. 

The Children of Bohat II

A Duel between Fox and Child

The Moon tried to steal the Son  

Bees sting the King

Advice from a loyal Mercenary

2nd Riverday of Petals, Bohat

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

As Anastaz and Heldris speak with Yordanka, Milos looks out across the square at the children playing. His eyes narrow as they fall upon the girl with the blank stare and he tilts his head slightly. With a quick glance back at his comrades, he strides across the square and into the midst of the children. “Gentle children of Bohat, I am Sir Milos the Graceful, at your service! Renowned duelist. Fearsome hero. Once defeated by a goose.” He gives an absurdly deep bow – so deep he nearly tips forward, catches himself, and stumbles a step. His sword clanks and his hand gets caught in his cloak as if it had a mind of its own. All very undignified.

Referee

The children giggle and a little boy flaps his hands and honks like a goose. They laugh out loud when you almost stumble. The older girl just stares. Her blond hair is bristly and unkempt. “You are not a real Knight.”, she says in a monotone voice. The other kids fall silent. “Real Knights are dangerous. You are not.” She picks up a branch from the ground. “I challenge you to a duel, false Knight.” The little boy claps his hands in delight and shouts. “A duel, a duel!” but the other kids stay silent.

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

“Your mien is fearsome young one, more so even than the Goose, but I will not be cowed. I accept your challenge!” He picks up a stick himself and the duel commences. Milos makes dramatic feints and wildly misguided attacks at his opponent. Every movement punctuated with exaggerated expressions of ferocity and dismay. He responds to her attacks with terrified dodges, rolls through the dust, feigned stumbles, and other absurd acrobatics. Until she has him disarmed and literally over a barrel, ready to deliver the killing blow. “I concede to your great prowess my Lady! Please take mercy on this humble knight and spare him.”

Referee

During the fight the children relax, awed by your prowess and delighted by the comedic acrobatics. When you yield the girl looks down at you expressionless, the branch raised. “Mercy is for the weak” she says and tries to strike your face with unnerving speed and ferocity.

All the World's a Stage

Sir Heldris the Dove Knight

"I've met someone else who had been very fond of those times," comments the Dove Knight absent-mindedly, "and who weeps for the state in which the Game Hall is in these days." His eyes come back to the old woman and he smiles curiously: "What kind of story would you tell today? What kind of inspiration have you found in good old Bohat?"  

Referee

“You have? And who might this be?” She looks absently at the Fox Knight playing with the kids.”I will praise the Seers with my tales of course and the moon and the stars and the wisdom of beasts. I will speak of tidings from afar and from long ago.” She looks back at you almost apologetically. “I don't know if you will like all my tales. One play is called The Duel of Salt and Iron. And I will tell stories that some might want to keep a secret.” She leans in and whispers: ”One play will be called The Great Escape, a tale a drunken guard once told me. A tale of betrayal or of mercy. I let the audience decide.”

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

The Salt Knight squints at the woman. "No. I don't think I will like your tales, my lady. Good day." And he stalks off in search of food and beds for his comrades.

Sir Heldris the Dove Knight

You shall excuse Sir Anastaz, but what he means is that some things need to be told in the right way," Heldris explains, "lest their meaning is lost in cheer and laughter." The Dove Knight pauses for a moment. "He who mourned the abandoned Game Hall, was no other than the old king's nephew... or what of him still lingers there. If you have a noble purpose for your trade, your stories might be able to find a place at Farkash Citadel. Otherwise," he gives her an apologetic look, "you'd be better off following the Salt Knight advice."

Referee 

You sense Yordanka staring at you as you leave. The last villagers have drawn their water and the town square is now almost abandoned - only the white haired woman and two villagers stand at the well and talk. A couple of old peasants sit on the bench around the oak and smoke. Children are playing with the Fox Knight between the apple trees. From the Inn comes a smell of meat pie and cooked winter peas.

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

The Fox Knight slips to the side just as the blow lands on the wood of the barrel with a loud thud. His arm comes down on the branch and his leather vambrace breaks it cleanly in two. He leaps gracefully to his feet and faces his small opponent. Holding her gaze, he reaches into his pocket and pulls out a bit of red ribbon—frayed, nothing special. He lets it dangle between two fingers. “A gift, then, to end the hostilities. Red to match your ruthlessness. Freely given. You may refuse it without offense.” He carefully measures her reaction to the ritualized wording of the offer.

Referee

The children scream when the branch comes down and they shout in excitement when Sir Milos breaks it. The girl takes the ribbon and looks at it carefully turning it in her hands.”It is only just for the loser to give something up lest he would betray the honour of the duel … “ she feels the fabric with her thumb. “ … and it is pretty and I'll keep it.” Her voice does not betray any emotions. “What shall I give you in return?”  

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

“Perfect. An exchange of gifts that formally closes our duel. You are indeed polite, if somewhat bloodthirsty for one of your gentle years. Hmmm. He makes a show of stroking his beard in a scholarly manner and looking to the sky for inspiration. Grant me this then: tell me how you learned your very first courtesy.”  

Referee

She frowns and thinks for some time. You hear mothers calling their children for noonshyns and they scurry away leaving you and the girl behind. “I don't remember. One day I watched a wounded rabbit dying and I waited for a long time. It was the right thing to do.” You hear somebody calling with a hoarse voice: “Biljana, where are you? Come home now.” The girl looks at you:”Have I paid back my debt?”

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight 

“To witness suffering and death is a great courtesy and not always an easy one to offer. May the knowing that arose in that moment continue to guide you in the future. Yes, our game is complete now, fierce one. Now heed your mother's call. Until we meet again.” And the Fox Knight takes a sincere bow to the girl. 

An innocent Hare

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

Milos plops down at the table where Anastaz is sitting. “Found you! Did you order food already? I’m even hungrier now than I was before, if that’s possible.” He is covered in dust from his romp with the children and has a couple of dry leaves in his hair. 

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz makes brief eye contact with one of the inn's staff, about to bring out some meat pies. Turning back to Milos, he observes, "I suppose you'll need a bath as well."

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Coolly, "I'm sure the Fox Knight has no shortage of eager admirers."  

Sir Heldris the Dove Knight

The Dove Knight enters the inn and looks around for Anastaz. Before he can spot the Salt Knight, his eyes fall upon a strange decoration hanging above the counter. A buck head, a common hunting trophy. But on a closer look one can see some yellowish spots all around its snout. As Heldris approaches the counter, staring curiously at the beast’s head, he realises he’s looking at several tiny taxidermied bees, all in the act of stinging the poor beast. And one, larger than the others, sits right at the top of the buck’s head: a bee queen. Even being a motionless insect, her stance of defiance is more than clear. As he stares at the scene, Heldris hears the Fox Knight’s voice coming from a table near the hearth. He approaches the two knights and sits with them, oblivious of the tension at the table. “So, how are the children of Bohat, Sir Milos?” He smiles, lost in some personal recollection. “I saw you sparring with them with the corner of my eye, it reminded me of a younger me. A pleasant memory for which I thank you!”

Coat of Arms of the King

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

Milos laughs with no small delight at the Salt Knight’s quip as he welcomes Sir Heldris to join them. “I am glad to stir fond memories for you, my friend. By and large, the children seem well, although one young girl by the name of Biljana is certainly unusual. She demonstrates a speed and ferocity that suggests some kind of magical influence is upon her. I tested her and believe she is still who she says she is and not some Fae imposter. However, there is definitely more to learn here. Perhaps a pattern we can discern among the affected children.”

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

"In my vision, the Herald led children away from the village, but I did not see who was led back. Perhaps the children have not been replaced at all, merely changed by their time in the Elf's realm." He thinks for a second. "Then again, perhaps the vision was not literal, or is meant to occur at some future time." He sighs.

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

Milos gives Anastaz a sympathetic look. “The inscrutable visions of the Seers often raise more doubts than they offer clear guidance. Nonetheless, we will get to the bottom of this, one way or the other. Perhaps Lady Inga's wise counsel will help us gain some clarity...”  

Referee

Ser Perilake, Inga takes you by the hand and leads you to the back garden. Her hands are cold and she is trembling. Outside Avert is riding a stick horse chased by the scarred mercenary. When Avert sees you he drops the stick and runs over and throws himself into your arms. He is small for his age and still looks like a child although soon he will be old enough to serve a Knight. “Papa you came!” he screams “Uncle Bartek told me he will let me ride his old war horse, when we get back to Farkash!” Inga tussles his hair. “Only if uncle Bartek sits behind you. Now, tell daddy what you told me … about, you know, what happened during that one night.” You feel Avert tighten in your arms and he embraces you again. Then he whispers softly into your ear. “I don't know why I woke up before dawn … but I did. And the animals were all quiet although I should have heard the chicken but … then the moon looked into my room, a round face and its eyes were shining like a cat's eye at night and I couldn't move and it tried to climb inside through the window and I was so scared and I still couldn't move … and then somebody made a sound in the kitchen and the moon was gone!” He rubs his snotty nose with his palm. “Can we go home now?”

Ser Perilake, The Gilded Knight

"Yes, Avert, you and your mother will be going home." He holds his son tightly, then gently releases him. "Bartek here will take care of you until I can return. I have duties here in Bohat, and I thank you for helping me with them. I am proud of you." He turns to Inga, and the two need exchange no words. Their gaze says it all. They embrace fiercely, and Inga turns to their son. As Inga grasps Avert's hand and leads him away to their lodgings, Perilake nods to Bartek and holds the old warrior back a second. "I doubt it is the moon we face here, but some ill formed creature that the boy has mistaken. It seems focused on Bohat... but I would ask you to ride hard for Farkash and to spend no night on the road, short of risking further injury." Bartek nods deeply, nearly bowing. "Of course my lord, as you command. I - I will not fail you." Perilake raises a hand to his shoulder. "The boy is fond of you, Bartek. As am I. You must forgive me for this embarrassment, but I am proud he calls you uncle." The two men share a moment, both remembering a time of crossed blades, of blood and screams, when one held the life of the other in his hands. "I am proud of these years and what we have built together." Perilake says softly. "And I trust you. Go well my friend." A smile threatens to twist the scars on Bartek's face, but the gruff warrior merely nods tightly. As he leaves, Perilake observes the man carefully tidy away Avert's fallen stick before he stalks after his charges. A good man, in the end. Perhaps good enough to keep his family safe. The gilded knight searches out his companions.

Referee

As you leave the garden Bartek hurries after you. “A word my lord.” He doesn't look at you. ”If we ride now we'll have to spend the night in the …”He shifts uncomfortably “As you well know the hills are impassable and the bog ..., well at times paths lead nowhere and many travellers have lost their way. If we ride out before dawn we could just about make it to the Citadel or else we will at least be camping close to home and safe enough. Lady Inga is a fantastic rider and I will keep Avert close.” He grimaces, exposing his gold teeth and for a moment you see the cocky mercenary you once threatened to kill, fiercely loyal and unbreakable.“

Ser Perilake, The Gilded Knight

"Then one more night in Bohat it shall be Bartek." Perilake ponders for a second. “Perhaps.... perhaps this offers an opportunity we would otherwise not have, loathe as I am for my son to spend another night with this... thing... afoot. I will speak to Lady Inga, and tonight Avert will have a guardian beneath his bed. I am sure the boy will enjoy the game, but if anything comes through the window once more then the pleasure shall be all mine... and Rzeźnik's."

The Children of Bohat I

Sir Anastaz, Ser Perilake and Sir Milos ride to Bohat 

to investigate rumours of children behaving strangely.

Sir Heldris meets a proud playwrite

and Lady Inga is scared for the safety of her son 

2nd Riverday of Petals, South of Bohat

Grey cirrus clouds cover the sky as you reach the southern lowlands, rye fields and meadows illuminated by sun shafts. After galloping all morning your steeds are foaming at the mouth and their skin is steaming with sweat. The warm spring winds bring the smell of manure from the North and as you ride passed peasants mucking the lush green fields they remove their hats and stand still, staring at you in awe.

Rye fields in spring

Referee

On the edge of Bohat children abandon their game of hide and seek between blooming apple trees and run alongside your steeds, screaming cheerfully and announcing your arrival to the village. An older girl with bristly hair stays behind watching you blankly. In the shadow of an oak a woman with long white hair is preaching to the villagers who are waiting patiently at the well for their turn to draw water. When you arrive at the town square they are nudging each other whispering and giggling behind cupped hands. A chubby man stops sweeping the cobbled ground in front of the inn and leans on his broom. Next to the inn is a half timbered house, the home of Lady Wendela. Blackwyn sniffs the air and snorts. A groom is leading Pearl, Lady Inga's steed, towards the stables. An ornate wagon stands opposite the the well. A wiry middle aged woman in a vibrant red robe, matching the brightly coloured canvas of the wagon, lets two fat ponies drink from a bucket. There are stars and spirals painted on the wagon.

Sir Heldris the Dove Knight

Heldris is led into town by Colmán, his steed, as he lets himself be lost in the gentle colours of the season, droning bees and children's laughter. As they turn the corner to the town square, he's snapped out of his musing by a sharp voice preaching about the Child. Children's laughter floods the air again and the Dove Knight sees his friends standing in the square, he joins them happily and hugs them for longer than it would be customary. "It feels like it's been an awful long time, my dear friends." He notices the young knight that stands with them, and greets him with a warm smile before introducing himself. "Word of your precious help and courage has already reached Karpat. Welcome to the Company of the Black Fleece."

Ser Perilake, The Gilded Knight

Perilake's warm smile is distracted, and his eyes do not settle on Sir Heldris but on the stables, where Lady Inga's steed is being led. "I am glad you are with us, Heldris. We were told that some bewitchment had fallen upon the children of Bohat... but all seems well here." He glances over at the children scurrying back to their makeshift playgrounds in the orchard. "Still, there is much else afoot in our holdings. I will leave you to get acquainted with Sir Milos; I must be about a most pressing duty, and beg your leave."

He leads Blacwyn over to the stables, to host Blacwyn alongside Pearl, and ask where Lady Inga and his son Avert may be found.

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

Milos stands next to Znaly, nuzzling her neck, praising her in a hushed tone for her strength and her speed. He looks up to see the approach of the Dove Knight and steps forward to greet him with an eager smile on his face. "Well met! I am honored to finally make your acquaintance on this auspicious morning. You are as imposing and noble a figure as the stories tell of. I pray I will be worthy of the trust you and your brothers have placed in me." They lead their horses toward the village stables. Milos tosses his head back in laughter at something Heldris says. But as they cross the threshold into the stables, the Fox Knight’s movements slow almost preternaturally, the voices around him recede and become indistinct, the tinkling of delicate bells is heard… Then a bemused lord’s voice rings clearly in his mind - “Your promise is never forgotten, my wayward knight.” Milos stumbles across the threshold and falls to one knee in dismay. Znaly snorts and stamps the earth, wide eyed and suddenly alert.

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz, curious about the decorated wagon and the woman in front of it, is alerted to Milos's episode and helps the young man up. "Are you alright?"

Referee

Sir Heldris, Colman takes a step towards Znaly placing his muzzle over her neck whinnying softly as if to calm her. You see Sir Milos fall to his knees gripped by visions or a strange affliction when Anastaz steps inside the stable. Behind him Tibor is snarling menacingly at the other horses

Ser Perilake, the groom takes Blacwyn's reigns and tells you that Lady Inga just returned to the mayor's house from the river where she prayed all morning. At Lady Wendela's home you are welcomed by a servant and led to her study, a dark room in the back of the house and only illuminated by candles. Lady Inga stands at the window and has lifted the drawn curtains a bit to peak outside. When you enter she turns around and smiles, physically restraining herself from rushing over to you. You can see in her eyes that something is wrong and Avert is not with her. The old mayor sits on several cushions near the cold hearth. She must be in her 60s and her once round face looks pale and haggard. She grunts: “Gilded Knight. You made yourself scarce. At least you had the courtesy to send you better half to warn me about your arrival.” She cackles briefly and then coughs into a handkerchief.

Lady Wendela of Urban's home

Sir Heldris the Dove Knight

The Dove Knight halts and with a worried look turns over to the young knight. "What ails you, Sir Milos?" As Anastaz helps the Fox Knight up, with a puzzled look Heldris tuns to the horses in the stable.  

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

Milos grips Anastaz’s arm for support. As he looks up at him, his face seems bewildered and his eyes glassy. He speaks a few words in a tongue that the Salt Knight cannot understand but remembers vaguely from a faraway dream of fear and loss. The older knight’s breath catches slightly and the hair on his neck stands on end. Milos’s eyes clear as he slowly stands, never leaving his friend’s gaze. He glances over at Heldris and his cheeks redden. “I’m uh… I must have stumbled. Forgive my clumsiness. Perhaps the hard ride has tired me more than I imagined.” His face pleads with Anastaz to not press the matter, while his hand holds tightly to his arm.  

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

The Salt Knight frowns, but he clears his throat and looks back at Heldris. "Let us find food and a place to rest then."

Sir Milos, the Fox Knight

Milos sighs with relief. He loosens his grip on his friend’s arm and offers him a rueful smile. “Yes, breakfast seems like it was a lifetime ago.” He points across the town square to the woman next to the ornate cart. “Did I smell meat pies when we passed that wagon yonder? Perhaps the woman in red would part with some for a coin or a favor?” He raises an eyebrow to Anastaz, a hint of his familiar playfulness returning to his demeanor.

Referee

The horses all seem to be nervous, snorting and pawing the ground but whether the arrival of Anastaz' strange scaled steed has caused them to be jumpy or if something else is the reason is difficult to ascertain. The stable boy finally manages to calm down most of the steeds, bribing Tibor with a treat. “Boy! I need to ….” Just as you all leave the stable you almost bump into the woman in the red tunic with her ponies. She curses under her breath and looks at you with cold eyes apparently unimpressed by your status. Only when she recognizes Heldris by his missing arm she casts her eyes down and apologizes.

Sir Heldris the Dove Knight

Heldris responds with a slight bow. "No need to apologise, we are in the way." He eyes the woman, her ponies and the red wagon. "My name is Heldris, what is yours? What brings you to Bohat?"

Referee

She looks up and musters all three of you thoughtfully. Her eyes widen for a brief moment when she recognizes the Everflask at Anastaz' side and then straightens up and clears her throat. “I am Yordanka.” She smiles proudly and performs a big flourish.” A bard and collector of stories, if you will, roy... “ she bites her lips “ … distinguished playwright and performer. I travelled West to revive an old tradition that has been abandoned for too long, to bring tidings and joy and wisdom to … this realm.” She hands over the reigns to the stable boy. “I can't pay you right now” she says to him ”but you can sit in the front tonight.” The boy shrugs and leads the ponies away.

Ser Perilake, The Gilded Knight

"It is good to see you again too Lady Wendela." Perilake smiles wryly at the old woman's barb. "Bohat may be in Kranach's domain," He says pointedly. "But we are proud of our neighbours and our friends come second only to our own duties." "Thank you for your hospitality to my good lady wife, though to call her my better half does Inga a disservice. She is more than half or even the whole of what is good in both myself or this world." He takes his lady's hands, and squeezes tightly as she smiles warmly back at him, their love undiminished by the years, though Perilake notes the worry in her eyes and sobers. "The Fox Knight brought us word that something was amiss in Bohat. That the children were affected by some strange influence. Tell me, both of you, what is happening here and how may we help?"

Referee

Wendela scoffs which turns into a cough again. “Strange influence! Cough More like superstition and nonsense.” She tries to raise herself up and then closes her eyes painfully. “Some of the kids … these rascals just need a proper spanking to come to their senses. Apparently they have thrown stones at old Ružika … because she is ugly they claimed! Can you imagine?” She smiles sourly. “Nothing that a good old beating with the cane couldn't handle.” Inga who has helped Wendela to sit up and now stands beside her, rolls her eyes at Wendela's words. “Aunt Wendy, you need to rest now. If you feel better in the afternoon, we can walk to your herbary.” She looks at you meaningfully. You can see that she wants to speak to you in private.

Ser Perilake, The Gilded Knight

Perilake bows. "We will let you rest, Wendela." He takes Inga's arm, and allows her to lead him to a quiet place to discuss matters.

Referee

Inga closes the door behind her, turns around and falls into you arms, covering your face with hot kisses: “I'm so glad … you here … thank the river that Avert is with Bartek … I will take him home … he saw … he saw... “She takes you face in both hands and whispers breathlessly. ”Listen to me, my love: He saw someone at night at his window .. staring at him. I spoke to the children … they are … they don't … they aren't human. We can't leave Avert in Bahut!” She leans against the door, with tears in her eyes.

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

"What tradition?" Anastaz asks."And why now?"

Referee

Yordanka has deep wrinkles around her mouth that makes her look unhappy. She forces herself to smile. “When I was a girl I visited the Game Hall with my father back when Castle Barow had a different name. They were plays and dances and games and you wouldn't find an empty seat and Vassals would stand outside and crane their necks. The plays were about life and the Seers and the seasons and afterwards everyone was elated and they would talk until the early morning about what they had witnessed. “She frowns. “Why now? Under King Barow the tradition had died and the Game Hall is empty but … until the Game Hall is restored I have my own little stage to perform.”

The Children of Bohat

Ser Perilake, The Gilded Knight

He holds Inga tightly, then pulls back. "Of course. Let us fetch him now, and Avert can tell us what he saw, and you can tell me why you believe these children are.... no longer themselves." His hand rests on his sword subconsciously as he speaks. "If they can be saved, we will save them."

Session 19

Evening of the 2nd Stoneday of Petals, South of Castle Farkash

They spend the night at the banks of the river in their own camp away from the chanting of the monks. Sir Milos is eager to get to know his brothers and suggests a game of compliments, where a false compliment must be paid back by stories and the other Knights accept the challenge and play so honestly that they haven't been called out for false praise until the fires have burned down.

2nd Woodsday of Petals

During the last watch heavy rain pours down and Sir Milos realizes that he is on a clearing within a forest where the river has been and no monks are in sight. Instead his eyes are drawn to three plinths, a white one – cracked - , a grey one with a dagger resting on its top and a last one that is black. The first shows an angel comforting a one-armed Knight, that Milos knows to be Sir Heldris, the Houndslayer. The second has carvings of a woman and her toothless scream. When he approaches the last dais his boots step into a pool of blood. Anastasz and Perilake tell the Fox Knight of the statue of an angel who helped Heldris and the Grey Hunter who punished Lady Lydia. Realizing the implication Perilake buries the returned dagger hilt first in the earth, and refuses any further bargains. The branches part.

A white Goat

In the afternoon they come upon a heath under a dark sky, muted colours disrupted only by a stark white goat surrounded by a splash of red. The Knights are worried about the grizzly sight as white goats are never eaten for they are believed to be the reincarnation of Seers. Worse still the goat has been disembowelled by claws, the innards laid out in a ritualistic spiral around it. They decide to burn the carcass on a pyre to cleanse the evil but the flames first turn green until the flesh is purified. 

Anastasz leads them into the mountains where they seek the sanctum of the Cured Seer. At the mouth of a cave they are met by an acolyte, an ancient woman, and led deeper into a labyrinth of caverns. Illuminated by candles, they find the Seer emaciated and encrusted in salt, surrounded by a throng of their acolytes. Boldly Perilake approaches and partakes of the sacrament but his visions are foul: A black sun, golden corona. Seers stumbling eyeless and blind. Panicked animals all around him and beyond something is writhing. A name is whispered: The Wither Within. Now it is Sir Milos' turn to take the sacrament but in his devotion he only dares to take the salt off the Seer's feet: A golden coin, minted in The City, is spinning: on one side the river smothers the fire under Oakfell on the other the dwelling is washed away, At last Anstasz tastes the cheekbone of the Seer and is returned to the fabled poppy covered hills where he defeated the Elf. There he sees the Herold of the Elf, Tizria, the Season Scout, leading a group of children, who are compelled to follow him.

A disturbing Omen

2nd Riverday of Petals

When they leave the caves they are blinded by the sun. The arc of a rainbow spans over the mountains as they spur their steeds towards Bohat.

Session 18

1st  Skyday of Petals

It is thundering in the distance as Milos, The Fox Knight, approaches Bohat and finds refuge in the inn. He is served wine and food but the mood is somber. Children have returned after they were missing but they are changed. Milos braves the elements and spurs his steed to bring news to the Brotherhood. He arrives late at night at the Citadel.

1st Rainsday of Petals

The next morning Lady Alina, a tall, severe-looking woman, brings him to the Grand Hall where Anastasz sits alone on the throne and Perilake with his family. Few candles in the alcoves illuminate the relics that adorn the hall. When they break fast Milos tells about troubles in Bohat and Sheriff Sorina about rumours in the South. A shrouded hunter had reported complaints of Vassals about foreign Knights in the company of the Jewelled Seer and their chained wolf. They welcome Eliska, a petitioner from Oakfell who pleads the lords to visit the dwelling that is plagued by smoke and hidden fires.

A herald is sent South to inform the foreigners to announce themselves as is custom for Knights. Lady Inga visits Bohat to talk with Lady Wendela and the Brotherhood leave the Citadel for Oakfell by boat. Thick smoke lies over the dwelling and Perilake orders the woodcutters to dig a hole to search for the fire but soon the heat is overwhelming. Milos plays hide and seek with Agafya, a young girl. They share her favourite hiding place, a crack in the earth. He explores deeper and deeper into a natural tunnel system where he finds the burning coal seam, but must turn back as the fumes are too much.

Sir Milos, The Fox Knight (artist impession - Znalý, the steed, is actually grey)

1st Stillday of Petals

Milos sneaks away in the morning and brings an offering at the roots of a nearby tree and receives a glimpse of the spires of The City. Back in the camp they contrive a new plan: To divert the river and quench the hidden flames. The weak and the young are sent to Farkash by boat while the company travels west to follow Lady Inga. At the foot of the mountain they come upon an orchard shielded from the winds by sheer cliffs and they hear moaning among the song of birds. In the darkness lies a Knight between the trees. Anastaz stops the bleeding and cauterizes the stump where her arm had been. She whispers of the Axbearer who struck her down but she was spared for unknown reasons. Anastaz reminds his brothers of the Myth of an axe bearer that despises the knights. Long ago they visited a ruined temple with the sigils of knights with skulls on them. They remember a message carved in stone: All Knights will feel the Axe. 

The River

2nd Stoneday of Petals

Odile of Czobor survives to morning. Anastasz offers her shelter at Farkash, where she might learn to fight one handed from Heldris. They learn that her attacker was tall and enraged. She fled and - worried about the safety of their holding - they ride hard for Farkash but the Citadel is undisturbed. They tell the Sheriff to spread word of the Axebearer - and of the Black Fleece’s desire to face her in battle. They travel south between the hills where all is silent and the first flowers bloom in the soggy ground. Soon they hear chanting and they reach a river where hooded figures pray. Milos approaches their leader, a woman with a haggard face but intense blue eyes. Martuska declares that she is praying to the River. Perilake remembers the symbol on her robes, the sigil that adorns Heldris' helmet. Perilake hunts a deer for the monks to sacrifice it. It is offered to the River. The monks pray to appease it, the Knights for the safety of Oakfell. Afterwards they talk and Martuska speaks of the Cult of the Mother whose prophets are the few hermits who kept their faith when others abandoned it and they preach in all the dwellings in the South. She has seen the Jewelled Seer in her travels and they told her about the Child who knows the way to the City.

Chronicles of Barowia III

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Music:

The Bulgarian Voices Angelite - Гаидине Свириат (Gaidine Sviriat)

Student Chamber Choir Plovdiv - Два тъпана бият (Dva tŭpana biyat)

Chronicles of Barowia II

A decade passes of an uneasy truce. At Scetpremass only the riders of Szalai send a delegation to pledge their allegiance - but the King is too weak to punish both houses that stay absent. Finally the King devices a plan to change the power balance in his favour. He grants the Knights of the Brotherhood their own holding in the Southeast between the rebellious houses where the Cult of the Mother has almost vanished but resistance to the rule of house Barow remains strong.

Farkash Citadel

From a winding path across the hills, or from a boat exiting the river delta, you can spot a milky stone tower glimmering in the morning light. All around it rises a large citadel on a terraced hill, featuring the same light stone and white marble, embraced by stout walls and tall towers. Gated docks overlook the quiet lake. From up close the former splendour vanishes, crumbling walls, some towers toppled and the marble of the citadel cracked. Only the keep stands as tall as before and guards over the empty stalls in the overgrown courtyard.

The Citadel before extensive renovations

In the spring of next year a delegation from Oakfell, a small dwelling to the North, arrives on timber rafts. At the docks they are greeted in her typically reserved fashion by Jitka of Urban, the newly appointed Steward. After short negotiations they agree to sell their timber on Farkash's market in exchange for protection. The woodcutters haven't forgotten the Gilded Knight who adjudicated justice in Oakfell some years ago and keep asking about the bright young lad who had accompanied him then. As a gesture of goodwill Eliska, a skilled carpenter, stays behind to fix the stalls in the bailey and the roofs of the dock. Later that year Timea visits the keep and establishes the trade of timber and fish through the Guild. The first steps of the brotherhood's rule over the domain begins promising. As the year ends the storerooms of the citadel are full of salted fish and produce from fields all over the domain. At Kindlemass everyone meets at the Grand Hall where Zofia of Barow has taken care of the reliquaries house Altenburg had left. A wondrous place even on normal days with numerous niches and alcoves holding the bones of long deceased Seers and illuminated by hundreds of candles. Today though the Hall is filled not only with light but polyphonic chorals giving praise to warmth and friendship.

Kindlemass in the Great Hall

Thanks to Timea and the Merchant Guild, the river route is restored and news of the new holding spread fast. Masons and carpenters start working on the repairs of the old abandoned citadel, as an improvised market is set up and starts drawing commerce from the region around the lake. Heldris follows the works eagerly, although he always passes Winter time in Karpat Fortress, in order to spend as much time as he can with Hedwig and little Annegrit, who is growing into a healthy and curious kid. Jitka of Urban takes on the role of Steward, and attentively overlooks the works on the citadel and the docks. She haggles skillfully on supplies, organises intelligently the work week, and overall manages to run a tight ship. A young Waldochian, Vojtech, joins the court, and spends Spring and Harvest riding through the region to spread word of a new castle and a promising market. The Dove Knight sets himself up in a modest chamber, with a large window overlooking the gentle lake, but slightly away from the teeming docks. He enjoys the stillness of the natural landscape outside, joined by the faint echoes from the market below. He has a wooden library built beside his bed, to hold a little collection of music scrolls. When Hedwig visits, they often spend their time playing some of this music together. With little Annegrit, they visit the aviary on the white marble tower, where the homing pigeons nest. The kid feeds them and learns their names, as she sees them setting off for distant regions, then always coming back home

Lady Inga sheds tears over the troubles of Kranach and the adopted home she grew to love over her time there. Despite the deep wounds of conflict, few in Kranach can hold a grudge against this daughter of Svenrik - and fewer yet would dare voice such a thing where those who cherish her might hear. Notably absent is their travelling companion, the Pigeon Knight, who once called Kranach his home. When Perilake asks Inga to accompany him to Farkash Citadel, yet more tears are shed but so too is the weight of regret. The servants and the court of Kranach pay their respects as Perilake and Inga depart for Farkash.

As Kranach watches their figures from the battlements, they spy a figure clad in a tattered cloak, who joins the couple as they disappear over the horizon towards their new home.

In Farkash, they find joy unburdened by sorrow. They send word to Kranach, asking for the assistance of two rather different courtiers; Sorina, once of Szolok, whose eye and ear for people and their lives will serve her well as Sheriff, the troubles of the region never far from her attention. It is testament to her nature that Istvan of Kranach comes; even the man's fierce distrust of Svenrik cannot hold against her care, and he answers the call for his martial prowess to serve Farkash as Marshal, as it once served Zigmund and Ulrich. His hopes to serve their heir are plain for all to see, but the Pigeon Knight spends scant seasons in Farkash before flying onwards. Sir Perilake and Inga privately believe the admiration of Oakfell and the bitter pride of Istvan to have driven Zoltan onwards as much as his oaths.

A humble marketplace

Lady Inga dedicates herself to the restoration of the marketplace, more often found within its humble grounds than the bright citadel above. With the aid of Jakub the smith, she restores the bas relief of the merchant guild, and the docks are reopened to trade with Timea and beyond. When the woodcutters of Oakfell hear word of the Gilded Knight's holding and send their delegation, she prepares a feast of fish to celebrate their new pact. With each season, Inga nurtures the simple yard of the marketplace in to a hub of commerce and trade, bustling with merchants and produce.

The visits of little Annegrit are beloved by more than her father, though the Gilded Knight often comments on the Dove Knight's newly soaring spirits. Sir Perilake is often seen carrying her atop his shoulders as Lady Inga dotes on her with treats from the sellers of the marketplace. As Farkash stands renewed, the Gilded Knight and his wife welcome their own child; little Avert is often passed from stallholder to traveller to tradesman as Lady Inga works, the quiet bright gaze of his blue eyes bringing peace to all manner of quarrel and dispute.

The Salt Knight rarely enters the marketplace, preferring to spend his time in the keep. He tends to diplomacy with the Crown and its loyalists in House Szalai. Free from the responsibilities of fatherhood, he spends much of his time discussing minutiae of ruling with the Council, or reading Istvan and Jitka's histories of the Realm.

Never unkind, but often solemn, he allows himself the occasional show of pride when Zoltan or Gundhilde visit the citadel. Otherwise, he can often be found in the great hall, lighting candles for the futures that never came to pass.

The Myths awake again

It seemed as if the Myths lay dormant for an Age as the citadel was restored and trade routes were established and the domain prospered … But sometimes a low rumble can be heard deep underground or a lone wanderer finds dire warnings cut into the rock to the life of all Knights. And with every year the Brothers of the Black Fleece become more restless and during the day they have visions of strange spires in the clouds and at night wild dreams of The City as if a burning god passed through them in their sleep leaving ambers behind within their minds and in its glow they see a city like a nexus of a thousand roots that drink in silence.

And so the wheel of time grinds forward once more ...