The Lords of Farkash II

Morning of the 2nd Riverday of Sprouts

Perilake, the first light of the morning falls through the window where Avert is standing already dressed, tense and full of anticipation. After breakfast you take him to the stable and Blacwyn greets you with a loud snort and rubs his head against yours. He has white hair around his muzzle but there still is fire burning in his now sunken eyes. Avert takes the reins of the horned stallion.

Anastaz and Heldris, when you enter the Great Hall after dawn for breakfast the Gilded Knight is gone and Jitka waits at the door for your orders. She avoids Heldris' gaze.

Ser Perilake, The Gilded Knight

As Avert leads the horned stallion out of the gates, followed by his father, the pair are stopped briefly by the tall, lean figure of Zoltan. His men stand guard on the walls, and the Pigeon Knight feels their eyes upon him - and hears their whispers of the returned scion from every corner. He bows before father and son, and his voice is low; not the mumble of his youth, but the guarded, cautious tones of care. "Please pay my respects to Lady Inga, my lord." His eyes play over Avert, and back to his mentor. "She was always kind to me. Tell her I wish that I... that the myths were kinder to her." Perilake clasps the younger man in a hug, and they depart. Zoltans eyes follow them along the road, a wistful expression across his face as the riders break the horizon.

Referee

Your shadows ride before you as the sun rises and you pass through green hills covered in ferns and spring flowers. Blacwyn proudly takes the lead, the foreign steed following, or father and son are riding side by side if the terrain allows it. At noon you rest and Avert watches in astonishment bees tirelessly flying from crocus to daffodil. “I remember them” he says chewing, “they all serve their queen. There were bee hives in Bohat when we visited Aunt Wendela ... We don't have them in the Kingdom,” he adds thoughtfully.

Later you reach the treacherous ravines that criss-cross the western hills between Farkash and Bohat.

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz sits down to eat, exactly as he normally would. Between measured bites, he says to Heldris, "The Queen demands the Needle Relic. The Cured Seer may give us a better notion where it is."

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

Heldris nods, dark thoughts brooding in his head. "I remember Lady Hedwig mentioned the relic once," the sudden thought of his late wife's seems to drive the storm away from his head. "There may be some map that shows a more precise location in Karpat's library. I shall go and research their scrolls."

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

The Salt Knight nods solemnly. "I shall wait for you at the Chapel of the Child. Perhaps we can confer with Perilake there."

Later that morning, Anastaz goes to the stables, where it seems a stone statue of a horse, cracked and chipped, is taking up one of the stalls. With a pitcher of brine from the kitchens, the Salt Knight douses the creature, and it starts to snort as he rubs the fluid into its skin, hardened scales flaking off. Fifteen minutes later, Anastaz leads the beast outside, and tells a horrified stableboy, "You may need help cleaning up the mess. It's been a while since Tibor last molted."

The Southern Woods

Referee

The other horses eye the ancient steed with some relieve when you leave. There is a deep depression in the scales between Tibor's eyes and a drooping of the lower lip which gives him a morose expression. The sun breaks through a thin layer of cirrus clouds as you ride South through a valley overgrown by thorny shrubs and brambles. At noon you reach a forest of oak and beech and rest at a pond covered in water lilies. Rays of sunlight filter through the canopy as a choir of frogs chirp and croak. Across the pond stands a half-derelict hut, the door hanging from its hinges. Inside, you think you catch a glimpse of a cradle.

Heldris, you sit alone in the Great Hall for a while after the Salt Knight has left. Eventually Jitka approaches you with some trepidation. She still avoids your gaze. “Is it true what they say?”

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

Heldris watches the Steward with a tired look: “To which of the many rumours and truths that people spread are you referring to?”

Referee

“Sir Svatoslav is family and … he is missing and the guards stationed at his door informed Lady Landrada you sent them away and that you escorted him out of the castle. As the Sheriff of course she pursued the matter and the townsfolk told her they heard him screaming and … “ she hesitates “ … they said they heard your voice and … they heard you howling like ... - well we would like to bury his body but the rumours are … that … that the body cannot be found because ...”

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz gently calls out, "I mean you no harm. I am a knight of the realm seeking food and shelter in these woods," as he goes to the door.

Referee

Tibor snorts a short warning as you enter. It smells of moss and mould inside but the furniture is intact: a vase on the table has fresh flowers, the cupboard a few pots and pans but no food. The cradle is empty except for a rattle made from animal teeth. In the distance you hear a strange hissing cry, neither human nor animal - more like fire doused with water.

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

“Lady Ladrada is not the Sheriff anymore, Vojtech is. Who appointed her doesn't rule this castle anymore, and she has no right to pursue anything.” Heldris falls silent for a moment. He breaths slowly, letting the steam dissipate. He resumes in a calmer tone: “I'm sorry for Sir Svatoslav, I truly am. But he has been claimed by the River. Twenty years we've been away, it's true, although against our will. Some of us have lost family and friends in this time, and we've come back to a world at war. You claim to have done what you could for Farkash in the absence of its rulers, and I believe you. Sir Svatoslav did not, he ruled becase he wished for power and he choosed blood when he could have stepped back. You have heard his harsh words yesterday, his treath of treason towards those who would stay.” The Dove Knight looks at Jitka almost tenderly, “I understand family bonds, and nor I nor my brothers will be resentful if you'd decide to leave.” He extends his hand to her. “Think about what you want your role in this realm to be, and give us an honest answer before noon.”

Referee

“The River claimed his body ...” she says and nods slowly as if accepting the explanation. “And Lady Landrada? My aunt … “ Jitka hesitates again. “ … is she in any danger by you - or the river? I must know before I can tell you my decision.” She raises her hand to indicate that she is not finished. “Before you answer I need to set aside my personal circumstances and act as the Steward of Farkash.” She straightens herself. “What do we do with the Crownland mercenaries? We can't feed them forever but if we release them they might see an opportunity: The castle is poorly protected, some of the bowmen were killed or injured, many fled. Sir Zoltan will return to Kranach. Captain Hiroshka told me the Hussars will ride back tomorrow. We can starve the mercenaries to death … or we can release them and risk retaliation.”

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz squints at the source of the noise, and draws his goldfalx tentatively. He leaves the cottage, and puts a hand up to his ear as he slowly follows the sound.

Referee

Between the trees and among the rays of light you see a fire burning and as you get closer it is a woman, her body aflame, her eyes glowing coal and she screams in anger. She hasn't seen you yet.

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

He enters the clearing and shouts over the noise. "Do you need help, my lady?" He keeps his hand on his sword.

Referee

You see her through a haze of heat, flames dancing on her white tunic embroidered with golden threads that form arcane sigils. The fabric stretches over her swollen belly as if she were heavy with child. Her burning eyes fall on you, her scream the incomprehensible fury of wild fire. She moves towards you, swift like flames burning through a field of dried grass. Her fingers are curled into claws.

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

The Salt Knight's hand goes from his sword to the everflask, and he quickly uncaps it, attempting to douse the approaching woman.

Referee

She is upon you and about to engulf you in a deadly embrace. You feel the heat of her body as she grabs you but the water from the flask gushes over her head and then there is a cloud of steam and the fire sputters and her body goes limp and slides to the ground. She seems to be unconscious and unharmed but when you feel for a heartbeat her skin is hot as if burning with a fever. 

The burning Mother

 Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz lifts her up gingerly and seats her on the back of Tibor. "Gentle," he says, and Tibor huffs. He mounts the steed and continues toward the sanctum.

Referee

She groans when you place her in the saddle. After a while Tibor suddenly halts and prances nervously and the white tunic darkens and wet stains spread rapidly from her waist down. Tiny flames start licking on her arms.   

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz sighs, looks west, looks northeast, and goads Tibor back to the hut, putting the smoldering arms around his neck. As they arrive at the pond, he lifts the woman off the horse and places her down at the edge of the pond, her hips above the water but the bottom of her legs inside. He stamps any flames out of his tunic and lays it beside her. "My lady, I know little of these things, but I believe you must push now."

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

Sir Heldris muses for a long minute, then lifts his eyes to meet Jitka’s. ”We will release the Crownland sellswords, and they will march back to whence they came... call their leader so that I may speak to them.” He then adds, in a less commanding tone: “Lady Landrada has been removed from her posting as to not put her in a difficult position, but she is in no danger by me or the River. The River has been appeased through the soul of a sinful man, and we may hope we won’t hear of it again soon.”

Referee

“I hope we won't regret the decision. I will summon their leader at once.” She bows and turns to leave but hesitates and adds. “Svatoslav was an opportunist. When the King gave him the chance to rule he grabbed it with both hands, for his own glory and that of house Urban … but he was not a bad man. I will inform Lady Landrada and Sir Vojtech and I will personally give you my decision by noon.” She leaves. The Grand Hall is silent again and you sit alone on the throne. After a while Captain Hiroshka arrives with the mercenary, a squat woman in the elegant uniform of a Barowian officer. She salutes sloppily and waits for you to address her. Her eyes wonder around the hall as if looking for an escape route.

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

The Dove Knight sits in his chair, holding on his lap a leather gauntlet, adorned with arcane symbols and old hawks feathers. “Captain Gergana,” he says, “I have nothing against you and your men. I’m going to release you all, on the condition that you won’t pillage our fields and harass our people.” He looks at her for a moment, as if struggling to make a difficult decision. “But I don’t presume to give you any orders. I will offer you the gift of flight, the swiftness of the hawk, and eyes over every move of your enemies, that’ll set your company above any other in this Realm and beyond… if you accept and respect my terms…” He hands her the falconer’s glove “I know your men must be fed and paid, but that is on your employer, you’re free to go ask Andrasz what you’re owed. If you accept my gift, consider ourselves bound to friendship, and hopefully a productive one, when our coffers will be full again." He smiles

Referee

She takes the glove and turns it in her hands. “They say you killed Prince Grigori … and Sandor the Hawk - the greatest mercenary of his age - and took the ring he used to turn into a bird of prey and spy on his enemies … So it wasn't a ring.” she says thoughtfully and then she shakes her head. “This is a powerful artifact … it would give me a great advantage on the battlefield … and yet, I wonder ...” She caresses the old leather. “My men are tired of war and they have seen the fertile lands of your domain, and its peasants … they are weak. Give me their lands and you have an army of experienced soldiers… and in time of war they would protect what they own.” “Or refuse and I'll take the glove and I will command them to leave … but I can't guarantee they all will. Some might be tempted ...”

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

The Dove Knight nods, thoughtfully: “After all these years of war, it is your right to wish for a more stable life. We’ll be happy to give you land to work on and to call your home. But I have to warn you,” he sighs, “you risk going from the frying pan into the fire.” His face darkens, “It has come to our attention that some of our subjects have joined the militia of the Axe, and they may cause you some problems.” He seems to reflect about something, then he finally adds. “Well, Vojtech, our Sheriff, will start an investigation immediately. Help him uproot at least some of these rebellious farmers, and I'm sure that in half a fortnight you'll have a quiet farm and good land secure from any harm."

Referee

She flashes a dangerous grin. “My men fear no peasants, rebellious or obedient… and we can wait. We have waited long enough.” She hands you the glove back with a wistful smile. “Hopefully, my years of fighting are over… but if you need a Retainer for your Marshal or a Courtier… I'd rather use my knowledge than work in the fields.” She shakes your hand and returns to her men.

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

Heldris breathes a sigh of relief and smiles back to Captain Gergana. “I’m sure our Marshall Zofia of Barow could use a skillful hand such as yours... and also someone to keep an eye on her...” he adds with a smile.

Referee

At noon, Jitka returns. The small woman walks slowly over to the throne and bows deeply. “My lord, I have decided to resign and take my aunt to Castle Barow. I thank you for your trust in me, but loyalty to my family has to take precedence. If you have any last orders for me...” She looks down, and if she feels any regret, she doesn't show it.

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

Heldris takes a minute to think about Jitka’s decision. “Thank you for your honesty, Jitka. I don’t have any last order, and I wish you the best. I have only one question: all these years, who amongst our courtiers would you have trusted with your duties, in case of sickness or indisposition?”

Referee

She scoffs. “I wouldn't have trusted anyone to replace me… but I if I had to hand over my duties for a time … either Lady Ileana of Karpat or Sir Dumitry of Barow. Both know when to spend and when to save. The Lady of Karpat might be rash in her decisions but her instinct is mostly right. Dumitry can be callous but he has good contacts to the merchants guild back from his time in the Crownlands” and Heldris decides to appoint Ileana the new Sheriff.

Jitka attends the Council meeting in the afternoon and hands over her duties to Ileana. Voijtech looks nervous around her and only shows his charming smile after she has left ... which disappears when a servant brings him a list of all peasants, their contributions and whatever else is known about them. Landrada has made no effort to sort them and the Waldochian looks lost between all the scrolls. The tall Ileana of Karpat has a sour smile and harrumphs repeatedly while studying the documents Jitka has left her and you recognize with sadness a striking esemblance with a younger Hedwig. Zofia leans over and whispers something in her ear but the new Steward only shakes her head. “Not enough funds unless we increase taxes or withhold our contribution to the Queen.” And so the Courtiers start arguing for and against this or that proposal and the meeting goes on and on while Heldris watches them with tired eyes.  

Night falls in the Mountains

Ser Perilake, The Gilded Knight

Perilake and Avert lead their mounts through the twisting ravines of the lands west of Farkash. Many would find these routes near impassable, but in the Stolen Age, when one was a boy and the other merely a few seasons younger than now, they rode these paths. And despite living every one of those years, old Blacwyn remains surefooted, remembering the steep trails and winding scree he trod as a young stallion. Perilake is pleased to see Avert guide the horned stag with skill. The beast is strange, and its temperament fierce, but they are both touched by the thrice-ninth kingdom. For once, this brings more wonder than woe to Perilake's heart. All is quiet on these lonely paths through the hills. The chattering joy of the boy he was is gone, but Avert's curiosity remains. He listens intently as Perilake talks of the realm; the inscrutable insights of the seers, the myths that shape the land and the people; the politics and intrigue of the houses; the old king and the new, and the seemingly inevitable gravity of a conflict that can no longer be deterred or avoided. With each insight offered by his father, Avert has a question or two or three or five, each carefully considered. And for each of those questions, his eyes reveal yet more insights unspoken. For Perilake, it is a welcome thing. A return of sorts, and a long awaited reprieve. As he did in the thrice-ninth kingdom, he feels hope in his heart that the impossible may be achieved once more.

Referee

In the afternoon you reach the foothills of the mountains, the sun blocked out by majestic rocks and in their shadow you lead your horses up a winding path. After some time mist begins to rise all around you and your body grows heavy and your legs weaken and when you feel Blacwyn's wet muzzle in your face you lie on the ground and look up at a starry sky. Over the rush of a nearby waterfall you hear joyful cheering and later the continuous tolling of a bell from the mountain top.

Ser Perilake, The Gilded Knight

Perilake strokes Blacwyn's muzzle. When Avert asks about the tolling bell, Perilake gestures around to the darkening skies. "It is too late, Avert. It sounds peaceful enough; no one in need of our aid, and nothing of import to our affairs." He smiles as he helps his son set up camp. "And I know you do not wish to keep her waiting any longer.  

Referee

Anastaz, the woman moans in response and you see beads of sweat on her forehead. The sun moves slowly west sending rays onto the hut and the pond and the rock from which a strange silvery waterfall flows. Now and then the mother is shaken by contractions and flames dance on her upper body and burn you and she cries in pain. Then the last ray of sun touches her face and a thick mist rises around her as if a red-hot iron is quenched and her body feels heavy in your embrace and then you feel someone being much too close and Adler smiles at you and when you wake up, you hear distant cheering and shouts echoing from the mountains in the West. A light shines in the dark and when you enter the hut a child lies in the cradle. There is a candle on the table but no sign of the mother.  

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz grips the edge of the cradle, his brow furrowed and his face pale and clammy as he peers in.

Referee

The Child is wrapped in torn white cloth and it looks at you silently with bright blue eyes. It shows a sweet toothless smile and it is as pure and innocent as the first day.

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

The Salt Knight's breath catches. He puts a finger in the crib, and the babe tugs on it. "There are many who have anticipated your arrival, little one," he says, as he turns away toward the hearth. "But they will have to wait." And he begins to make a fire. 

The Lords of Farkash I

Noon of the 2^nd Armsday of Sprouts

You hear the anxious whinnying of horses and a moaning from the tower where injured defenders have been abandoned by their comrades. The Kranach spearmen have surrounded their Urban and Barowian counterparts and Sir Vladislav stands them, head bowed and mumbling to himself: an old man, frail and lost. The Crownland mercenaries regard him with pity and some eye their guards with probing eyes. Zoltan commands his troops to bind them and lead them to the dungeon, while Captain Hiroshka orders her soldiers to man the towers and treat the wounded.

Later, you meet in the Great Hall. The reliquaries lie in the shadows of their alcoves, the candles unlit, and the grey light of a foggy spring day shines through the stained-glass windows. Lady Alina has personally served bread and wine. She stands at the entrance to the hall awaiting your orders, her wrinkled face devoid of expression.

Ser Perilake, The Gilded Knight

Perilake looks at his brothers, and at Avert sitting in an alcove, fidgeting with his cloak. "My brothers, I have a duty whose call grows only ever louder. Come the morrow, I I will make my family whole again." He smiles with profound sadness. "Painful as they were, it is still mere months for me. For Avert... and for dear Inga... I must tarry no longer. At first light, I must ride."

His limbs heavy with the fatigue of battle, he sits heavily back in his seat. "But for now, we must pick up the thrice-broken pieces of Barowia, and do what we can. Much has changed in Farkash in our absence." Perilake beckons Alina forwards. "What has become of the people of Oakfell, who we invited into these halls? To the merchants who once made this place thrive? And what of you, Alina?"

Referee

Alina comes forward. The sharp strike of her simple wooden cane echoes through the hall. She stands tall and proud, unbothered by the awkward circumstances and despite her advanced age. “Sir Svatoslav decided that the Citadel couldn't afford to support them any more. Eliska agreed. They left for the woods to the east to work as woodsmen. Some of them ...” she bites her lips but then adds. “Some of them, might have joined the Militia of the Axe … mylord.”

“The merchant guild still trades their wares on the market. You might want to ask Lady Jitka for the state of our coffers.”

Courtiers rallying behind their former ruler

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

Sunk into a chair, feeling exhausted by the metamorphosis and the fight, the Dove Knight stares coldly at the old courtiers of Farkash. His eyes black and motionless, like those of a bird that waits for its prey. At Perilake’s words of a family whole again, he comes back to himself and nods, speaking softly: “Lady Inga awaits you both, we won’t keep you away any longer my dear brother.” He then turns to Alina, Jitka, and Vojtech. “Twenty years have passed, and things larger than yours have been in motion against the good of the realm, so perhaps we shouldn’t hold it against you… But what have you done in our absence, to let the market rot and Oakfell fall? You that had kin here ruling our castle, or that have seen your castle usurped, or your lands pillaged?”

Referee

Voijtech smiles and clears his throat to speak but Jitka cuts him off. “My family's crest is the lock and the quill for we have long been in service of the Realm, as Stewards and Sheriffs, as Retainers and Courtiers. But we never ruled our own domain. When the King saw Farkash without rulers he finally granted us the holding we deserve.” Next to the imposing figure of Lady Alina, she looks even smaller - but no less proud. “It is true that the Citadel hasn't prospered in your absence. But other holdings faired worse than ours. Trade can't flourish in times of war as history has proven time and time again and at least our people don't have to starve.”

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz leans tall and strong against a wall. If the battle has taxed him, he makes no indication of it. "We must thank Urban the vassals did not have to sacrifice the way Karpat's have done. But a swift end to this war will be a boon to all."  

Referee

Jitka nods, relieved that the Salt Knight confirmed her words, and turns to Sir Heldris again. Vojtech uses his opportunity to step forward. “Mylord, we have done everything we could to keep the spirit of Farkash alive. We even had a small farewell feast when Elisa and the woodsmen left.” Although a mature man now, his face is still open and youthful. Avert, who is standing behind the throne, looks at the Waldochian curiously. While he seemed uninterested in the fighting, he has come alive in the more familiar circumstances of the Court and pays close attention. Captain Hiroshka has entered the hall and approaches the Salt Knight. She leans in and whispers, “Sir, when we rounded up the mercenaries and brought them to their cells... the King's brother was taken with them.” She weighs her words carefully. “It seems… inappropriate to treat him like a simple soldier.”  

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

Heldris listens attentively to his old courtiers. The rage of the river flows threateningly before his eyes, but he cannot bring himself to punish these people, who seem to have done what they could to survive in times of war. “Thank you, my old friends, for your honest answers. No one holds you accountable for the misfortune that has befallen this castle, as well as Urban or any other family who did what they could to protect their own.” He watches them intently, as he fights the pain in his tired body and the storm in his cursed mind. “If you still welcome the rightful rulers of Farkash, it'll bring me joy to have you again at our side, and we’ll reconvene later about the state of the holding, and what we can do to set things right. If you don’t, consider yourselves free, and have my blessing and wishes of good fortune, elsewhere.” 

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

The Salt Knight turns to Hiroshka and gently says, "The finest empty room is his. Make it up for him, and tell him to send for me once he is comfortable."

Referee

Hiroshka salutes and leaves at once. Sir Svatoslav, who has been hiding among the courtiers, steps forward and bows. His face is pale, and he wears the traditional white blouse and black waistcoat of the south. "I thank the Dove Knight for his mercy," he says. With a warm timbre and without raising his voice, his words carry to the farthest corner of the Grand Hall. "It pains me to leave the holding I served for a decade, but my loyalty to the King demands it." He then turns to the other Courtiers. "You need to decide for yourselves whether to leave with me or to stay." His face is flushed now, and you can feel the suppressed anger in his melodic voice. "But unless the Citadel pledges loyalty to the rightful ruler of Barowia, I must consider you - traitors!" 

Hushed murmurings can be heard and the Courtiers exchange anxious glances. The ancient Lady Landrada whispers something in Jitka's ear. Half a dozen minor nobles rally behind their former ruler.

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

Heldris listens quietly to Sir Svatoslav’s speech. When the nobleman falls silent, the Dove Knight stares at him coldly, his eyes still, like those of a hawk. “I wasn’t talking to you, Sir Svatoslav of Urban!” he says, raising his voice at every syllable, until the man’s name echoes throughout the hall. He stands up, wearily, and walks to him. “If you think you can run to your belligerent king and call us traitors, you are very much mistaken!” He gestures to Farkash soldiers to take hold of him. “Lock him in his chamber, we’ll soon judge if he deserves the same mercy he so quickly refuses his former courtiers.”

Referee

Sir Svatoslav is dragged away by the guards struggling in their grip and shouting to be released. The Courtiers who have come forward to support him scurry back to their peers who murmur excitingly about the former ruler's downfall when Zofia raises her voice: “All hail the Company of the Black Fleece, all hail the rulers of Farkash” and the noble men and women kneel. Even Lady Landrada the Envoy under Urban's rule is helped by Jitka to bend her creaking knees but she shrugs her off and hides her face under a black veil.

When finally the Court is dismissed and only Jitka stays behind to await your orders, Hiroshka returns. As the grey spring day turns dark, servants start to light the candles in the alcoves “Milords” the captain announces, “Sir Vladislav has been relocated to his chambers.” “I have made sure that he is treated respectfully.” she adds turning to the Salt Knight. “The Banner Knight would like to have a word with you … for old friendship's sake, he said.”  

Ser Perilake, The Gilded Knight

Perilake spends an evening looking out from the balcony of his old room, where once he and Inga shared laughter and hope. Their belongings have long been removed, replaced by those of a stranger. And stranger still looks the place he called home. No longer does it ring with the busy merriment he remembers; a memory that is for the Black Fleece, mere months past. Yet so long for those who reside here. Once more he feels the world shift uneasily beneath him at how the river of time has been so thoroughly broken. That young Vojtech, once a callow youth among the Fox Knight's fancies, is of an age with the Gilded Knight. And that those who were once his peers now stand old... as must surely his wife. He thinks not of her beauty or her grace, but of the years of loneliness she must have faced without him. The only solace he has is that his son shares the room with him once more. That his family will be reunited. Such a thought is enough, even as the challenge of reuniting the realm itself hangs heavy upon him. "In the morning, yes Father? We will see mother, and we will bring her back to the court." Avert says from the room, his eyes glittering in the candlelight over his gathered scrolls and books. Perilake smiles sadly, and nods. "In the morning, my son. We will see Inga. And then..." He trails off, his heart heavy. "And then we will be a family once more, and we will decide." Avert eyes narrow, and Perilake nods. "Your mother and I, and you. Together, we will decide."  

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

As the last trickles of the sun's blood vanish from the horizon, the Salt Knight carries a pitcher of wine to Sir Vladislav's quarters. He wears no arms or armor. He enters the Banner Knight's chambers and pours two goblets full, offering one to Vladislav. "This batch of grapes was harvested the year we left Farkash, and now it is a rare vintage. Have you, too, sweetened with age, or become more sour?"

Sir Vladislav questioning his life choices

Referee

Sir Vlad raises his cup with a shaky hand, spilling wine onto the rug in front of the hearth. “I have turned to vinegar,” he snarls. Lingering pain has carved deep lines around his eyes. He stares vacantly at the stains on the rug before leaning back heavily in his chair and downing the rest of his drink. He looks down at his trembling, liver-spotted hands. “When I was young, I wrestled bears. Now, I can’t even hold a cup.” He looks up, his watery eyes meeting yours. “What will they say about Barow’s rule over the Realm? Was it just? Did we bring peace?”   

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

"For a time. Had we remained here all those years, we might have helped you. But the needs of a father are sometimes more important than needs of a king. In the blink of an eye, all that was once strong became feeble, including your brother's rule. Perhaps it is time for a change."

Referee

“Perhaps – but Andrasz won't go down without a fight … and he has support from the North: Two warbands of veterans who have been fighting all their lives - not to mention the army he can muster anyway. Even the combined forces of Masur and Kranach won't beat them easily … if at all!” Vladislav stares at the red stain on the rug again. “More violence, more blood. Is that what you want?”

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz sighs. "Masur and Kranach were defeated once before, and look at them now. Andrasz chained the wolf, but could not tame it. To win the war, he must make this realm a ruin. Only then will you have your peace."

Referee

Vladislav rubs his temples with trembling hands, eyes closed and he is silent for a while. “It was a mistake to come to this Realm.” he finally says. “It was a mistake to leave our home. All I wanted is to hunt and to enjoy life and now … now I am an old man and I will be buried on foreign soil … “ He shakes his head. “All you can wish for in life is to keep peace for a while until the cycle of violence begins anew.” He opens his eyes again. “March on Castle Barow and you will be responsible for the death of hundreds of men and women - and for what? A dream! There will never be a lasting peace, Anastasz.”

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz seems to ponder the knight's words and rises to the room's window. He looks out, hands clasped behind his back, and says, "My brothers seem to think a legend will unite the people. Perhaps they're right; perhaps they're wrong. But Barow's time has passed..." He turns back to Vladislav, smiling sadly. "After all this, I still respect Andrasz. Return to the Crownlands with whatever men you can muster and whatever wealth you can carry, and I will ensure there are no reprisals. Tell your brother we can end this suffering."

Referee

“I still remember the grove on the night after our bout. The stars above us ... I was happy then … happy that I was alive. Happy to have met a worthy opponent.” Vladislav gives you a sad toothless smile. “I will talk to my brother. He will call me a fool and a traitor … but I will try.” “And if he declines ...” His smile broadens “ … I hope the two of us will meet on the battlefield and that I will die in the saddle and not in a bed.” He laboriously gets up and extends his hand.  

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

The Salt Knight pulls the old man into a hug. "For my sake, I hope to stay far away from that hammer." 

~*~

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

Heldris sits before the fire in Anastaz’s chambers, and tells the Salt Knight of his debt with the River and how it came to be. “I thought it’d be easy to sacrifice an enemy for the good of the Realm,” says the Dove Knight in a whisper, “but even before such a detestable man as Sir Svatoslav, I struggle to bring myself to act.” He pokes the fire slowly, pensively. “I would gladly pay the toll myself, but to think of my daughter losing her father again and, perhaps sinning of arrogance, of me quitting so early this quest to bring the Realm together…” He sighs, "I fear, one way or the other, my spirit is lost."

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

Anastaz places an arm on Heldris's shoulder. "And if the river chooses to wreak vengeance, how many children will lose their parents? These forces are not to be trifled with. The life of one old man is of little consequence in comparison."

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

Heldris nods, looking up from the fire. "You're right, ad always. The River has taken its course and cannot be changed now." He stands up and, without the need of saying more, he makes his way towards Sir Svatoslav chamber.

Referee

When you reach the corridor that leads to Sir Svatoslav chamber you see in the torchlight Lady Landrada and a servant being turned away by the two guards posted in front of his door. Landrada looks furious as she slowly shuffles away. “Ungrateful peasants” she curses. The gurads stand in attention and open the door for you.

Svatoslav is pacing in front of the window and when you enter he turns with a smile that falters as he recognizes you. “I was hoping ...” he forces himself to smile. “... to speak to your Envoy … but I'm honoured that you came to see me.”

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

The Dove Knight dismisses the guards from their posting, and enters the nobleman’s chamber. “I’m not sure what business you’d have with my envoy, but it is time for you to be judged.” He tells Sir Svatoslav calmly, without anger in his voice. “Will you please follow me? We have a long way to go.” 

Referee

Sir Svatoslav looks surprised. “Now? A long walk?" He puts a coat around his shoulders and follows you.”I am prepared to defend myself and stand trial for whatever crimes I am accused of.” he says with a firm voice but when he sees the Salt Knight waiting at the door, he pales and takes a step back. “What am I accused of?”

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

"If you ask me, of the crime that far too many people have committed these last twenty years... acting against peace and the good of the Realm." The Dove Knight's tone is still calm and almost reassuring. "But it will not be on us to find you tarnished or free of sin. The River will be your judge, and its wrath may be appeased" He gestures Sir Svatoslav towards the door.

Referee

He looks scared now and hesitates to cross the threshold but under the Salt Knight's steely gaze he doesn't dare to resist. His shoulders slump and with a sigh he leaves the room. At the gate the guards hand you lanterns. When you reach the deserted market Sir Svatoslav stops at the bas relief of the merchant guild and starts to beg. “Please, Sir Heldris! I have done nothing wrong.” He holds on to the sign with both hands and drops to his knees. “What am I accused of? I followed the King's orders just like you. Please, have mercy!” The families of the small harbour town must have returned after the siege as you hear doors opening and see candles being lit but nobody steps out and Sir Svatoslav's pleas fade away in the thickening mist.

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

The Dove Knight stands still for a moment, he puts a hand on the nobleman's shoulder. “I'm truly sorry, Sir Svatoslav. But if you think yourself virtuous, you will walk with us to the water and will either be spared by the River, or redeem yourself with a last worthy deed: appeasing its fury." He gestures the nobleman to stand up.

Referee

“I'm not virtuous! I am a coward!” He shakes his head violently and hugs the sign like a toddler hugging the leg of his mother.”Why am I be judged and not you?" he cries. "You abandoned your duty! Somebody has to rule and it was me. Why am I punished for doing my duty?” His eyes are closed and there are tears running down his pale cheeks.

Sir Heldris, The Dove Knight

As he watches the man whining and clinging to the signpost, a wolfish growl rises within the Dove Knight. He grabs the nobleman by the neck and drags him towards the shore, his voice a snarl: “You profited by our misfortune, Sir Svatoslav, now face the consequences, face them as a coward if you so wish.” When they reach the shore he drags him a few paces into the water and stops, he turns the nobleman to face him and all that Sir Svatoslav can see are hound-like eyes shining red in the dark night. “Have it your way,” Heldris pushes the nobleman under the surface and struggles to keep him there. “Wrathful River,” he whispers in a growl, almost inaudible to the Salt Knight on shore, “here I pay my awful debt, and a sinful man I plunge into these waters, wet by your everflowing stream.”

A Sinful Man

Referee

Sir Svatoslav stares at you from under the water with utter terror in his eyes, bubbles streaming from his mouth in unheard screams and only the roaring of the river in your ears – eager to consume and pleased with the sacrifice - and as the drowning man's struggle weakens, you see possible futures for the river in the rising air bubbles, futures from which the Realm is spared: fishers returning with empty nets; a growing lake where the Fortress once stood; and a river, swollen and angry, sweeping away huts and cattle, and the corpses of Kozamost washed ashore in Farkash's harbour. For a moment a dark triumph washes over you. You lift your head and howl, and over the roaring of the river, you hear the beating of the bard's drum—the bard whose life you took in anger.

Sir Anastaz, The Salt Knight

A pale lantern glows in the mist as the Salt Knight watches stonily. As Sir Heldris returns to the shore, Anastaz holds out a cloth for the Dove Knight to wipe the water from his hands.  

Session 27

 Afternoon of the 2^nd Woodsday of Sprouts, Karpat Fortress

The company decides to spend the rest of the day in the Fortress. Heldris asks Sir Mateusz for boats to take them down the river and hands him the pendant of the Black Fleece. “Have banners made with our crest to strike fear in the heart of the enemy” and the old ruler accepts. Anastaz finds old maps of the Citadel and the Knights are pouring over them and discuss their battle plan until night falls.

Down the River and to the hills

Morning of the 2^nd Armsday of Sprouts

They leave the castle before dawn and descend to the lake where they are greeted by boatmen who take them and their warband down river. They pass the abandoned canal to Oakhill and reach the hills north of Urban Citadel. Zoltan and the spearmen from Kranach are already waiting for them. Heldris turns into a hawk again and flies South to scout out the defences of the castle. When he returns he picks on the tower of the map once for bowmen and twice on the courtyard for the spearmen stationed there. They approach at noon, under the cover of a light fog. Anastaz is leading the Masurian hussars to the gate, dragging the battle ram between them and they are greeted by a hail of arrows, while Zoltan leads his spearmen to the southern walls and they start climbing the siege ladders. The hussars release their javelins and many defenders are cut down and the rest flee.

Soon the gate is breached and the riders pour into the courtyard but bounce off the spearwall assembled. Heldris lands behind the soldiers and takes the momentum to crush into them. The Kranach warriors rush down the battlements and drive the Urban warriors - who are lead by Marshall Zofia - back. Faced with overwhelming force she orders her soldiers to drop their weapons … when a Barowian horn sounds from outside the walls. Reinforcements!

Anastaz leads the attack and the hussars follow him out into the battlefield, while Zoltan rallies his troops to defend the broken gate.

The Salt Knight meets Sir Vladislav, the Kings brother, and implores him to give up but the Banner Knight, old and frail that he is, still rejects the offer. Only when he arrives at the gate guarded by Kranach troops does he finally yield and is taken prisoner of war.

Sir Vladislav is taken prisoner

Session 26

Morning of the first Stillsday of Sprouts, Kranach Castle

In the courtyard Sir Heldris says farewell to the Pigeon Knight who needed no encouragement to lead his warband into battle. They agree to meet in the hills north of the Citadel to unite the troops from Kranach and Masur. He walks all morning under a grey sky, fatigued and broken, until he reaches the banks of the Ryba, swollen from thaw and rain and he keeps on walking until the river reaches to his thighs and pulls on him. “O river,” he cries in desperation “give your champion the strength to move on!” and the River answers angrily “A sinful person must be brought to me and sacrificed!” and when the Dove Knight agrees, he sees visions of those who wronged him, bloodied and taken by the waves. He comes by in a nest of woven reeds where the River had placed him, he is refreshed and the sun is setting in the west … but something is wrong: He hears the screams of frightened frogs and they flee into the water and hares and foxes follow. The sun turns black, surrounded by a golden corona and the Dove Knight leaves his nest and runs into a night that never comes.

The sun turns black

Afternoon of the first Stillsday of Sprouts, south of Masur Keep

Perilake and Anastaz cross the fort and the lake district beyond until they reach a rocky landscape where steam erupts and geysers shower them with hot water and when they make camp they too see the sun turn black and the soldiers scream and prey to the Seers. When they finally find sleep they dream: Perilake sees the Veiled Seer stumbling from their cave and they only say one word: Blind! And Anastaz dreams of the echoing caves where ancient acolytes flee in terror, their leathery faces distorted. The Cured Seer sits in a pool of brine his eyes white and unseeing.

Morning of the 2^nd Stoneday of Sprouts

They wake up, disturbed by these uneasy dreams and leave the warband behind while a storm is brewing and they gallop under darkening clouds. They follow a forest path and at noon they come upon a monolith covered in spiderwebs and a warm wind brings the smell of spices and an onslaught of dust and they cannot travel further for the rest of the day.

The East

In the hills near Bohat

At dawn the cursed sun is replaced by a new dawn and in the hills The Dove Knight sees a group of nuns removing pins from the clothes line while the fabric billows in the wind. Sir Heldris stumbles between them and falls to his knees: “I have been cursed, sisters, ever since I've been a young Knight” and the sisters help him up and surround him with love and mercy. In the chapel nuns sing hymns to the Child to expel the nightmares of the night before and he is brought before mother Inga who sits in her cell in the twilight of a candle, an old woman with cold compresses around her head that smell of vinegar. When Sir Heldris tells her that her son returned she thanks the Mother on her knees and doesn't listen when he petitions her to send the Seeker Knights to the Company's aid and later he turns into a hawk again and flies north.

Morning of the 2^nd Woodsday of Sprouts, near Karpat Fortress

The two Knights gallop east and cross the ornate bridge over a gorge and arrive at the fortress in the mountains where they are lead to the chambers which seem to remember them and display icons of their Seers on the walls: Cloaked in golden robes the one who knighted Anastaz and a heap of flesh and bone and metal who dubbed the Gilded Knight.

They are summoned to the lord of the fortress, a frail man bowed under an iron crown. They are greeted coolly. Karpat will not send troops to aid them: “We feed our Vassals first and then our soldiers” and they are reminded of the Queen who said the reverse. The Salt Knight makes a plea and is rejected. Only siege ladders can be spared and they take what they can.

Later that day they stand on the balcony of a tower in the shadow of the mountains and a hawk approaches on tired wings and turns into the Dove Knight who leans against the balustrade and tells them of his trials and tribulations. But a warband from Kranach will meet them he adds unable to muster a smile, and we will march together to take back the Citadel!

Session 25

 Afternoon of the first Rainsday of Sprouts

A hawk flies south high above the clouds and guided by the sun and when he lands for the night he turns into the Dove Knight again and makes camp in a forest. Before him is a huge blackened tree and between its roots are stairs covered in brambles and leading down into the earth but Sir Heldris, weakened by the transformation, decides to sleep and return to this place when he has recovered his strength.

Morning of the first Stillsday of Sprouts

He dons the falconers glove and takes flight and crosses the lake and finds the island shrouded in mist. He approaches the domed gazebo and invocates the Seer and a tangled mass of appendices some with mask-like faces appear, twisting in and out of existence. “Oh Seer” the Knight cries and offers the lock of Annegrit's hair, “My daughter desires to be a Knight.” and many voices answer. ”She will be knighted” says one and “She will die” another and a chorus declares that the Conclave of Seers will decide her fate at Eldermass and before the strange apparition disappears the chorus sings “Bring peace to the Realm” and the Dove Knight takes flight to beg Ladu Zdenka for a warband.

At Kranach Castle he turns into a man and is brought to the Lady who sleeps on her throne with Zoltan guarding over her. The Dove Knight explains the wish of the Company to rule over the Realm and that the marriage with Queen Anastasia is arranged. “Will you help us take back the Citadel?” Heldris asks. The Council is summoned and argues for and against. The Lady is unimpressed and holds Zoltan's hand. “Only my dear Zoltan can be the rightful ruler" but the Dove Knight insists: “We will rule but for a while. Zoltan will be declared King Anastaz' successor" and after some thought the Lady accedes to the proposal. A warband of mercenaries and a battling ram is given to the company and the support for the future King.

The Sanctum of the Tangled Seer

Morning of the first Stillsday of Sprouts, Masur Keep

Anastaz and Perilake lead the Hussars of Masur east through a dense forest until they reach a wide river where no river should be and birthed from the lake to the north. They hear chanting and see three sister of the Ryba with their faces painted red and a blue line smeared across. They demand “You will not cross the river until you bring a sacrifice: An innocent animal or a sinful person.” The nuns eye the horned steeds but the Knights decide to offer the mules that carry the warband's provisions instead. “How will I feed my men?” the short Captain exclaims. But the Knights just shrug. “You will find a way.” and the mules are brought to the river and slaughtered and their blood calms the river and the Knights and their warband cross over the ford that hasn't been there before.

The River is calmed ... for now

Session 24

 Afternoon of the 1^st Skyday of Sprouts, Kozamost

Mira, the ancient mayor of the dwelling, talks about harsh years of famine and war, how Masur took Szalai Keep and taxed the villagers to pay for her wars, how the Militia of the Axe – rebellious peasants to the East – refuse to pay the Tithe: The woman in the pillory is one of them. She explains how the village survived through the winter on salted fish. They decide to visit the Temple of the River nearby. When they approach the smell of barley wafts over and they see novices and lay sisters carry heavy wooden buckets from the rushing, snow-melted river to the longhouse where smoke pours from a chimney. On the riverbank sisters scrub giant oak barrels using the flowing water and sand to sanitize them for spring vintages. Sister Martuschka remembers the Knights and kneels before Sir Heldris who carries the ornate River Helmet. She leads him through a narrow tunnel to the inner sanctum where a mosaic of shells shows how the river gives floods and fertile land and takes a life when necessary. Heldris eyes fall on the depiction of a man between cloaked figures, blood dripping from opened veins and he understand that the river will demand from him a sacrifice and he agrees. Water rushes into the sanctum like a blessing of the Dove Knight and when he returns to his brothers determination glints in his eyes.

The Inner Sanctum of the River Temple

In the night Anastaz dreams of Tizra's Halls and he hears himself giving the promise to Saša that he will return. “But you didn't, did you?” Adler smiles, his face so close as if to smell the Salt Knight's despair.

Morning of the first Rainsday of Sprouts

The next morning they say farewell to Mira and take the boat North and see from afar the keep and the stone bridge now guarded by a tower and a toll house for boats and riders. Guards take them to the throne room where Sir Ludomir of Kranach, the Envoy of House Masur accompanies them while they wait for the Council to receive them. Lady Gundhilde, the Sheriff, gasps when she sees the Knight she served as a squire and Annegrit her Retainer runs over to the Dove Knight, the father she hasn't seen in an age and believed to be lost forever. Annegrit and Heldris retreat to the antechamber and cry over the stolen years. His daughter is now a Courtier but never lost her dream of becoming a Knight and Heldris promises her to visit the Seers to ask for her to be knighted. Meanwhile the Queen surrounded by her Council demands a pledge of loyalty from the company. Perilake wants to know what will happen to her enemies under her rule. “I will be Queen for the whole Realm, law and order will govern Masuria, the land will prosper and plays will return to the Gamehall of Lodestone!” “Why are the people of Kozamost starving?” the once Gilded Knight asks. “Because we have to feed our soldiers first” she replies. Perilake and Anastaz withdraw from the Throne Room to deliberate with Heldris who suggests that neither King Andrasz nor Queen Anastasia are fit to rule and that the heroes of the Realm should govern. He suggests that the Salt Knight might marry the Queen and it is decided. When he proposes to the Queen she looks worriedly at Sir Ludomir who buries his face in his hands but Lady Lydia already makes plans. The wedding will be held at Sceptremass, and all the rulers will be invited. The Queen hesitates: “A gift to seal the union and to show the Realm that the rule of King Anastaz and Queen Anastasia is legitimate: Bring me the Needle Seers reliquary, long sought by both Barow and Kranach .... I will give you a warband of my best soldiers to take back Farkash Citadel.”

Sir Ludomir of Kranach is sceptical about the proposed wedding 

In the afternoon Gundhilde and Annegrit visit the Knights and tell them about the spies who reveal military secrets to House Barow and Heldris asks his daughter for a lock of her hair. “I will make amends for the lost years, Annegrit. I will visit the Tangled Seer!” he declares and turns into a hawk and flies away.

Session 23

Morning of the 1^st Kinsday of Sprouts

The Knights follow the trail between the Southern Hills into a thick fog. It feels like Spring although they left Barowia in Harvest and they suspect Ashling or the Steward of the Seasons to be responsible. They lay out their crumbling map of the Realm, recognize the hills where Anastaz duelled the Elf many many years ago and decide to travel East to visit Swanstone, the holding of House Kranach. In the afternoon they are dazzled by a golden haze that blinds them and they hold on to their horned steeds and trust the Pigeon Knight's instincts. When night falls they make camp, and hunt rabbits while father and son talk about Avert's future. During the night they spot a large bonfire to the South and wild singing and the beating of a drum. The fire spreads and is only extinguished by a steady rainfall at dawn and they find masked cultists dancing and behind the mask a woman with bloody teeth mocking the Seers. Disgusted they leave and at noon they arrive at Kranach Castle - but the place has changed: New battlements and towers have been built, a vast construction that would have needed years to complete. The bridge around the moat is drawn and when the Knights announce themselves, they hear that Perilake has died a long time ago in a foreign land in the search for the City. Only when a grey bearded guard recognizes Zoltan, the heir of Kranach, are they let in and brought before the throne. 

Swanstone

Lady Zdenka, once tall and imposing, has changed as well: She is an old woman now, sleeping most of the time and slow to answer their questions. An Age passed while they were away and Barowia is in a state of chaos: The Queen of Masur has taken Szalai Keep and its former ruler had fled to the Seat of Power to become King Andrasz' Steward. But many whisper that Adalbert is a fool and that a stranger has the King's ear, who calls himself Aslan of Waldoch and Perilake believes it must be the sorcerer Ashling. Heldris hears about the passing of his wife and that his daughter, now a grown woman, serves in Queen Anastasia's court. They learn that Farkash Citadel is ruled by House Urban and that the Church of the Child is recognized by the King. A monastery has been built in the mountains east of Bohat where the Order of the Seekers serve Mother Inga. She still waits for the return of her son and the birth of the Child.

They spend the night in Zoltan's chambers and leave at dawn to visit the Queen.

1^st Skyday of Sprouts

A boat takes them north. When the rowers take a short break under a withered tree, a heap of misshapen bones sprouts from the ground and when Anastaz breaks them with his Goldfalx, warm puss seeps into the ground. They arrive at Kozamost after noon and visit mayor Mira, an ancient woman with shaking hands. She is shocked at first but soon delighted to see Heldris and the Company of the Black Fleece return to Barowia after famine and war has ravaged the Realm.

The Realm has changed