Chronicles of Barowia III

Season 6 teaser trailer

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 ...

Chronicles of Barowia I

The scriptorium is a flat building balancing precariously on one of the rocks between the towering spires of Karpat. Motes of dust dance in the light. The chronicler sits at his desk under a stained glass roof light. He stretches his back and sighs before dippings his quill into the ink: 

"In the year the Elf was defeated by the champion of the Realm and the Mist was banished, harvest was the most bountiful in written history and the granaries could not hold all of the crop. All was peaceful that year until ..."

~    *    ~

As conflict between Kranach and Barow grows ever closer, Lady Inga and Sir Perilake depart the castle for her ancestral home in Svenrik. The Gilded Knight's heart is heavy as he orders his squire to follow him, young Zoltan's loyalties divided once more. Yet his renewed oath binds him more than blood. They spend several seasons away from the realm; the news of Sir Ulrich's defeat and the shaming of Kranach brings a dark cloud over all three no matter the distance. Yet there they are married with the blessing of Lady Inga's family, and there is joy and peace even amongst the sorrow.

Away from the politics and blood debt of Barowia, Zoltan regains Perilake's trust, and his thoughts flee the troubles of Kranach. When banditry plagues the villages of Svenrik, the two seek out the Frozen Seer in their home in the glaciers. Guided to the rogue Landskenchts who are behind these raids, the two fall upon them and rout the enemy. When faced with a begging older mercenary clad in faded Kranach livery, Zoltan meets Perilakes gaze and holds his blade from the final blow.

Upon their return to the Frozen Seer, the two glimpse many possible futures in the fractal mirrors of the grotto. Amidst the shards of dark and bloody days that might yet be, and the fragile slithers of hope nestled between them, Zoltan sets aside the injured pride of Kranach. He swears his oaths, placing the realm above the home he once knew and is knighted. As he rises, he is gifted Zuraw; the blade of Kranach, now severed as he is from its home, but sworn to more than endless bloodshed.

As they return to Barowia, Lady Inga and the Gilded Knight are followed by the rider of a grey steed, clad in tattered mail. Sir Zoltan the Pigeon Knight knows no home to call his own, but finds his hearth in the horizon, and calls each hill his throne. And Sir Perilake is proud to call him his brother.

 

Sanctum of the Frozen Seer

After the events during Sceptremass Sir Ulrich resigns as the Envoy of Barow and returns to Kranach Castle. He becomes the new Sheriff after Lady Bianca's death. House Altenburg sends a warband to Barowia to support their allies. Marshall Gunter musters two warbands from the domain. Together they march towards Castle Barow.

At Szalai Keep Lady Lydia, wearing a simple grey tunic at all times now, has taken over most of the official duties from Sir Adalbert. A strange affliction has caused her teeth to fall out and she has become bitter and taciturn. When house Barow called for aid she convinced Sir Adalbert to wait before sending his troops. What if house Karpat uses the opportunity to seize the contested region? What if Barow retreats into the Castle and leaves the war over to our cavalry? They decide to wait for the outcome of the first clash between the two armies and only send aid if the war goes well for the King. And so the Barowian army rides out to meet their enemy alone ...

Horns sound and drums roll as the armies meet south of Castle Barow at an outpost surrounded by trenches. As Kranach's war machine marches towards the tower to seize the first line of defence a dark cloud rises from a nearby forest and circles over the armies. A swarm of small deformed beasts search for a target and descends on a group on the tower holding the banner of Lady Margaret. The Sheriff of Barow is fighting off clawed bees and for a moment she seems to be collapsing under the onslaught of stings and claws but emerges victorious, the last conspiracy of the Beekeepers foiled. While Kranach's warbands are slowly advancing through the trenches Margaret orders the archers to unleash a storm of arrows and those who emerge on the other side are driven back by Barowian spearmen. Many fall and the survivors are routed and flee back south. Soon news of Barow's victory reach Szalai Keep where Lady Lydia curses the gods of war. Sir Adalbert orders a warband to be dispatched.

South of Castle Barow the two armies clash

The Salt Knight and his squire are among the defenders of Castle Barow, heroically striking down the rebels of Kranach, though Anastaz no longer wields Zuraw, having entrusted it into the care of the Gilded Knight for Zoltan's knighting. When the clawed bees attack Margaret of Szalai, Gundhilde abandons her post and rushes to defend her mother. This response is viewed as a sign of cowardice and poor discipline in the aftermath of the battle, and a dejected Gundhilde accompanies Anastaz to the Cured Seer for guidance. They are told to seek the Swollen Seer in a far-off northern land. They discover a village in a windswept valley, shattered by storms. Gundhilde devises a structure to fit into the surrounding hills and change the direction of the winds to prevent future devastations. Going on, they find the cave of the Swollen Seer, a grotesque tumorous mass which has expanded nearly to the volume of the cave. In hushed babblings, the Seer declares Gundhilde fit to be Knighted. Anastaz, who had selected Gundhilde for her loyalty, recognizes her heart as her true strength. As they ride through the woods, a hare takes an interest in Lady Gundhilde. When they return to Barowia, they hear the news of Karpat's siege and Dagmar's death, breaking the Salt Knight's heart. In honor of the fallen Knight, Gundhilde names her companion Dagmar.

Sir Ulrich realizing the futility of his military campaign returns to Swanstone and soon after steps down as Sheriff of Kranach. His political career is over and he turns to the finer things in life. In the grand hall of Castle Barow Sir Adalbert and the King celebrate victory and renew their bond with an exquisite feast. It is only after the ruler of Szalai returns to his keep that he hears about an army marching from Karpat Fortress to seize control of the peat bog. During the skirmish Lady Dagmar, leading a warband without regards for her personal safety, was killed and her honour finally restored. Her body is buried in the tombs of the fortress next to the most revered Knights of Karpat. Sir Adalbert leaves the issue of the contested region with his trusted Steward - who is already plotting her next move ...

On the 1st Kinsday of Bales, as the land turns gold and the Feast of the Stars has just been consumed, kinship is called at Karpat Fortress and a strangely festive mood takes hold of the castle. Garlands of thistle and holly hangs over the walls, and the tunes of psalteries and drums echoes throughout the candlelit hallways. Many people attend the great day of the wedding of the new Marshall of Karpat. In the Great Hall, the mood is cheerful and pleasantries abound, as Heldris and Hedwig exchange vows before the altar, both dressed in fine brocade embroidered with flowery motifs that mimic the spirit of the season. A great feast follows, and a day of good spirits shuns away the brooding mood that had befallen the realm of late.

The next Spring, on Silverday a child is born, and is named Annegrit.

Session 17

 3^rd Rainsday of Petals - Outside Barow Castle

A cold mist covers the whole of the Realm and the three Knights leave Barow Castle at dawn to find the source of the curse. Soon they meet Sir Ludmer, grizzled and haggard, and the brotherhood of the black fleece is reunited again. They travel north through the bog to seek the Entombed Seer's council. In the distance they hear shrieks and emaciated figures move just outside of view. They make camp at a lake but their sleep is disturbed by the howling of the lurking horrors.

A thick fog envelops the Realm and at dawn the campfire is dull and all sound is muted. They travel blind through a forest and into the hills, stalked by weeping and wailing things and Heldris - troubled by a sleepless night - lashes out, grabs one of the creatures and wrestles it to the ground but he is hit by a foul tail. Ser Perilake spurs Blackwyn and strikes the horror down. For a while there is silence. 

The Gilded Knight and the Lurking Horror

They spot the ruined watchtower where the acolytes of the Seer live and reach his sanctum. The mist had crept into the valley and snuffed out all the sound and they wait for a long time before the white wall of the tomb until at last a hollow voice announces: The Smoke from burning Bones dispels the Mist. The ask the acolytes for a burying ground and hear about the burnt gallows to the West. They leave the sanctum in the afternoon and find a crossing over the Obra where deer graze between wild flowers. The night is filled with more horrors and even Ser Perilake's smile is gone in the morning. Bowed and almost broken Sir Heldris sings the cruel song of the Bat, that lives in the nearby mountains and soon they hear the flapping of leathery wings. It listens to the Dove Knight's plea and leads the company further west until they come upon a hill with three blackened columns connected by beams from which hang chains and dead bodies. The inscription on the base of a column reads They burned the innocent and paid for it. The Knights dig out bones from the ground and build with them a huge pyre and when night falls they set it alight. The flames leap upwards and a spire of crimson fire illuminates the faces of the Knights and where the smoke touches the mist it retreats and for the first time in months they see the sparkling stars that turn and turn in their eternal dance.

Flames illuminate the sky

~ An Age passes  ~

Sceptremass VIII - The Punishment

Before dawn of the 2nd Skyday of Petals - The Standing Stones

Referee

It is cold and dark and mist rises from the ground as your are lead to the sacred dolmen by guards carrying torches. You hear their boots sloshing through the mud and the hooting of an owl in the distance. The seconds shake hands with Lady Margaret and each other in the middle of the standing stones before returning to their side. The guards position themselves in a circle and raise their torches. Lady Bianca wears the uniform of the Marshall of Kranach, white and gold. She is watched by Sir Ulrich as she gracefully swings her cleaving blade in testing motions. Zoltan pale and shivering in his thin tunic forces himself to smile. He mumbles something through clattering teeth and upon realizing that you can't understand him he just bows and steps back. "Approach!” The Sheriff calls. "Combat will decide who is favoured by fate as is tradition since time immemorial. We will not mourn the dead but they will not die in vain as their blood will give strength to the Realm.” As you come together Bianca musters you with her beautiful cold eyes. She removes her gloves and extends her hand. "May honour guide our hands, and may fate judge rightly between us." Her unreadable smile slightly undercuts the nobility of her words. Or is she serious for once?

Before Dawn

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz wears humble garb barely befitting a Knight, but the Round Shield, and the sapphire in Zuraw's pommel, glint in the torchlight. The Salt Knight shakes her hand. He does not smile, only gazes into her eyes.

Referee

Her hand is surprisingly warm and when you shake she briefly passes her index finger over yours almost caressing it. Then she moves into position and the Sheriff gives the signal.

Bianca casually approaches her sword lowered. “Come closer Salt Knight. I want to....”Her first blow comes out of nowhere more quickly than you had anticipated and striking low trying to hit your right arm.

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz dodges out of the way. He delivers a wide swing which the Iron Knight easily parries, followed by a more precise thrust which almost strikes home.

Referee

Your blades meet with a clanking sound as she parries your blow. With a grunt she pushes you back, trying to catch her breath. Her smile is gone.

Anastaz The Salt Knight

The two knights size each other up with a few cavalier strikes, all easily defended against. Then Anastaz feints, but the Iron Knight anticipates his maneuver and he sees her blade swinging down where his shoulder meets his arm. He spins and ducks down, catching her leg with Zuraw, but he feels a twinge of pain and a wet sensation on his shoulderblade.

Referee

Bianca moans as the Kranach steel cuts her and she move back gingerly favouring her other leg. The faintest gray can be seen in the east and a black bird starts to sing.

“You cannot win.” she says out of breath as she comes closer, still with her sword lowered. She clinches her grip and raises her sword with all her strength trying to cut through your defence with might rather than grace.

Anastaz The Salt Knight

The Salt Knight catches her weapon, the iron slicing through his ungloved hand. Bianca has only a moment to register her shock before the Crane flies into her stomach and out the other side. Anastaz withdraws the blade.

Referee

As you step back you realize the pain when her blade glides out of you. Blood is trickling from a deep cut in your side. She looks up at you, her face pale and never more beautiful. “I had hoped … we could have … more time together.” Her parted lips turn red as she whispers something else that you can't hear over the blackbird's song.

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Softly, Anastaz says "We needn't have been enemies, my lady," before he delivers the killing blow.

Referee

You stand alone for a moment in the grey of dawn pressing your hand against the wound. Father and son rush forward and kneel at Lady Bianca's side. Sir Ulrich closes her eyes and kisses her on the forehead while Lady Margaret places her hand on the Iron Knight's stomach. After she finished praying she gets up, her hand dripping from blood. “Fate judged Bianca to be guilty of crimes unworthy of a Knight. She is stripped off her titles. Her body will be burned and her ashes scattered.” She places her hand on a slanted dolmen that shows faint outlines of dozens of handprints. “May her example strengthen the oath of those who uphold it.”

~ Epilogue ~

The Sheriff concludes her investigation into the Bat's escape. After the captain had repeated Ser Perilake's story and no wine was mentioned it was determined that the creature had used foul magic to pass through bars and doors and overwhelm the brave guards. At noon the body of Lady Bianca is burned on the pyre and the delegations from Kranach and Karpat leave before Sceptremass. 

Noon of the 2nd Kinsday of Petals - Sceptremass

The Great Hall is almost empty when the King and his Council accept the vows of Sir Adalbert and the remaining Knights. In the corridors of the castle there are whispers of the coming war ...

Sceptremass VII - The Escape

 Late afternoon of the 2nd Kinsday of Petals - The Standing Stones

Heldris The Dove Knight

The warmth of the sunlight casts away the clouds from the Dove Knight's heart. “Never a knight's duty was supposed to be easy. Now I know my heart is just.” Heldris wipes away the tears, strengthens his shoulders, and looks back towards the castle. He makes his way back through the main gate, looking for Timea, thinking she might have some remedy for the wings of the poor creature, or be willing to help him in some other way.

Referee

You find Timea in the Great Hall in conversation with a lean older woman whose sickly pale face stands in stark contrast with her bright red tunic. " … I'm afraid that won't likely be acceptable to my liege." The woman follows Timea's gaze who smiles brightly as she notices you. "… but maybe this isn't the right moment. I will of course inform Sir Adalbert about your request but …" Timea helps the woman to her feet and bows slightly. "Please, Lady Selina, tell your lord that my offer is the best I can do and that the King shares my concerns in case negotiations come unstuck." As soon as the woman is out of earshot she takes your good hand and gently pulls you onto the chair next to her. "I recognize that expression of a man in need." She laughs, "How can I help you, Dove Knight?"

Heldris The Dove Knight

Heldris eyes are still red and his voice still trembling. “Dear Timea, I'm an open book for you clear eye. I'm sorry to interrupt your negotiations, the help I need is a matter of heart and a matter of trust, but I understand if you wouldn't mix with my mission.” Heldris' hands close on Timea's. “I need to undo an injustice. I need some kind of medicine that could heal the poor creature's wings, for it shall be freed tonight.” He holds Timea's hands close to his chest, and let the spirit in his eye speak for itself. “Please, help me if you can, and a Knight shall be in your debt."

The Sunlit Seer

Referee

Timeas smile falters. “The poor creatures wings?“ She puts a hand over her mouth. ”I was mistaken. Before me is a desperate man hell bend on destroying his reputation. Why would you …?” She sighs, “ … well, to be frank, I don't want to know! But … you have sacrificed much to protect the Realm, to protect the Guild and I am in your debt. I will get you the poultices you need, delivered to your room within the hour and anything else you desire.” She rises looking around to see if anyone might be able to overhear her words. The tables had been put back and there is a ruckus coming from the hunters, drinking wine and eagerly anticipating the execution. She leans forward. “If you are caught I will not help you and I can't be associated with any of this.”

Heldris The Dove Knight

Timea’s sensible words bring Heldris partially back to his senses. “My reputation is just a means to an end, it is my oath that matters. But I’ll do my best to avoid destroying my reputation, and I swear I'll be the sole responsible for whatever happens next.” Heldris smiles warmly. “I know it is much to ask, and as I said it is I that will be in your debt.” He holds Timea's hand for a little longer. “Thank you, dear Timea.” He lets go of her hands, and warmly encouraged by the promised help he walks away. Now with a clearer mind, he wonders what has been of Sir Perilake, and if he might be of help.

Referee

Sir Anastaz, there is a knock on the door. Sir Ulrich stands in the corridor and bows formally. “I am here in my capacity as Lady Bianca's second to impart her requests for the duel.” His fine clothes are rumpled and there are leaves clinging to his tunic. He looks over your shoulder into the room. “May I come in? ... I need a drink!”

Anastaz The Salt Knight

The Salt Knight does not look much more dignified than Sir Ulrich: his hair is messy and he is in his bedclothes. "Please," he says, opening the door wide and gesturing inside. He pours Ulrich some wine.

Referee

Ulrich slums into the chair and takes a deep drink from the cup. "I talked to your second … and … " He wipes his mouth and sets the cup heavily back on the table. "... this is ridiculous! I talked to Zoltan about the Iron Knight's request. What is he supposed to do? Argue with his father?” Ulrich stands up again and walks over to the hearth. It is late afternoon and the room is cold and lays in shadows. He places logs into the hearth. With his back to you he says “She demands that you fight with 'open ventail' - no helmets and no armour. You can use the shield with the King's crest because 'that will implicate the King'." He wiggles his head as he mockingly imitates her voice. “ He turns around. "Will you accept?“

Anastaz The Salt Knight

"Hm." He turns back toward his armor and weapons, neatly stacked by Gundhilde. "I accept, so long as I can use this," he says, unsheathing Zuraw.  

Referee

Sir Ulrich eyes flash for a brief second as you unsheathe the sword that belonged to his father and that was stolen and brought to Castle Barow as spoils of war. He turns to kindle the flame in the hearth. “She will very much want you to.“

Anastaz The Salt Knight

"I wouldn't want to disappoint her... You know, I made Zoltan my successor, not just my second. If I die tomorrow, he will inherit this." He lays the sword on the table between them. "If I live, I will give it to him when he comes of age. I harbor no ill will towards Kranach, only treasonous knights who forsake their vows."  

Referee

“You still don't understand, do you? She cannot lose. Either she brings back Zuraw as a hero, her reputation restored.” He drops the log he held and leans heavily against the hearth. “Or she dies, killed by a henchman of the King with the sword of house Kranach that was stolen during the war. Do I have to spell out what the consequences are?”  

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz stares into the flames. "A strange land this is, where it is shameful to obey the King. I do not know what the outcome of this duel will be, but I have tried to act honorably, and in concord with my vows. I dislike bloodshed, but Bianca and I have made our bed, and now we must lie in it."

Referee

Sir Ulrich rises, turns and bows. He looks like a broken man. ”I will tell the Iron Knight of your decision. We will meet again at the hedge before dawn. Good luck.” He leaves.

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz watches him leave, takes a sip of wine, and slides his hand across Zuraw, the Crane, before sheathing it and returning to bed.  

Referee

Ser Perilake, while you were talking to Sir Ulrich a strange ray of sunlight pierced through the clouds. Within the circle of stones stood the Dove Knight bathing in the light. As you take your leave from the Envoy, Heldris is already halfway to the castle like a man possessed. Once you reach the courtyard yourself you see Heldris leaving the Great Hall, red eyed but with fierce determination.

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Perilake closes quickly with the Dove Knight. "What business are you about brother?" He mutters softly. They start making plans.

The Dungeon

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Perilake heads into the room, carrying three large jugs. One of strong wine, one containing Timea's secrets, and another of watered wine for the Gilded Knight's own. "Ah, the brave souls who protect us from this dread beast! Just the men I have been looking to see." He sets the jugs down on the floor, and uncorks the first before taking a long swig and proferring it to them. "Sceptremass is so dour. But it promises to be livelier in the morning, aye? A fire to warm our souls and the realm to be finally rid of a monster such as this." He proffers the jug to the guards "Though of course, that hunter Ratlev will get all the credit. I heard the King say he would knight him if such a thing was not the purview of the seers. But what of the men who stand guard over such a creature? Who keep the King safe from its ravages? I say they deserve a reward!" 

Referee

The guards get on their feet, one knocking off a chair another trying frantically to hide the dice they were gambling with. When they hear your praise and see the wine they relax and offer you a chair. The captain of the guards refuses the wine at first but doesn't dare to order his soldiers to do the same. He thirstily eyes the jug and when you mention a reward he finally gives in to the temptation.

Heldris The Dove Knight

Waiting in his chamber at the light of a candle, Heldris hears some footsteps outside and a heavy object being placed on the floor behind the door. Once the footsteps are gone, Heldris opens the door to find a small but heavy coffer, containing poultices, herbs and bandages, as well as rare incense and a pouch of sweet dates. He snuffs the candle out and, making sure no one’s around, he sneaks out in the courtyard towards the old Gaming Hall. Once inside, he lifts the slab once again and lowers into the dark corridor. With only the dim candlelight to guide him, the Dove Knight gains the trapdoor and in the dark he whispers: “Here I am again, Creature, this time to make things right by my oaths as knight.” As he hears The Gilded Knight’s voice greeting the guards, he opens the trap door and lowers himself down in the cell. “We needed help from some friends, and we’ve found it. I’ll heal your wings, while my fellow knight will keep the guards busy. We shall be quiet and patient.” He adds, taking out a sweet date from the pouch. 

Referee 

The cell is damp and smells of mould. The creature is lying on wet straw hidden within its broken wings. As soon as you take out the date you hear a soft squeaking noise and its snout appears tasting the air. A long tongue grabs the sweet fruit. You hear a sigh and moan from the Bat and the crooked wings unfold painfully. “Shhweeeet oooh shooo shweeeet!“ 

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Perilake drinks with them, and when their bottle runs dry he uncorks Timea's vintage and hands it over, smiling as the captain takes a long pull even as he loses a few coin on the dice game. Drinking only from his own jug, he waits for it to have its effect.

Referee

Soon they start to slur their words and their movements become slow and sluggish. First one of the guards rests his head on his folded arms on the table, another leaning back in the chair with closed eyes. Only the captain who tried to restrain himself is awake. He looks around with heavy lidded eyes. ”Friends … we …. should be more vig-  hic vigilant ….”

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Feigning intoxication, Perilake leans in across to the captain. "The beast... the beast.... is behind a bolted door, its wings broken. The key to its cell hidden... What...what is there to fear.... unless it can turn into water... or - or - wine!" he laughs

Heldris The Dove Knight

While the creature is feeding on the sweet dates, the Dove Knight sets up and lights the incense that will lull the bat and calm it down. In the meantime he mixes the sour herbs and starts applying the poultices on the creature’s wounds. All the while he hums the song of the great winged one in a gentle soothing tone. Finally, he covers the wounds with white linen bandages and as the bat curls up to sleep and recover, he hums a song from home, about a small grey dove that frees itself from a golden cage. He waits patiently on the creature's side, listening to the muffled banter coming from the closed door at the end of the corridor, keeping an eye on the healing wounds and changing the bandages when needed.

Referee

“Waddaya mean... hidden?“ He vaguely gestures at the shadowy wall but abandons his movement as the arm grows too heavy. “They're right there.”

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

"And this - this is right here!" Perilake snorts and pushes the last of Timea's wine to the captain, before letting out a great and entirely feigned yawn himself.

Referee

It is before midnight when the captain passes out and through the door you can hear Heldris softly humming to the Bat.

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Perilake stands, and quickly sets about his business. He unbolts the door, retrieves the key - making careful note of how it was originally placed - and opens the door. Silently, he nods at Heldris and the creature and raises a finger to his lips. He comes to the cell and seeing the straw laid around the creature, he uses a forgotten pail of water to wash out the jugs, tipping their dregs into the creature's bedding. No trace of Timea's brew or his own watery vintage remains. Perhaps the creature turned to water, or indeed wine, after all.... "The guards are asleep Heldris." He whispers. "We will secure everything as it was once the creature is gone, and I will position things so as to sell the best story; that our friend here has powerful magic that can defeat any cell or binding if needed. Whether the captain believes that or not, I will make sure he understands it is a better story for the King than their drunken thirst - and they will never know for sure."

Heldris The Dove Knight

Heldris nods and looks at the creature. “It should be up and ready before dawn. Let's hope it can fly away unnoticed and get as far away as possible.” He holds Perilake's hand, “Thank you my friend, we couldn't have made it without your help and your wit.“

Referee

You stay with the Bat performing the ritual of healing with herbs and song until before dawn it starts to stir. Slowly its mended wings unfold and the Bat towers over you its eyes flashing and its body trembling out of sheer power. It looks down at you. “Firthhht huuu chgave mee hope. Now huuu chgive me freedom.” It takes a cautious step forward, ducks to pass through the cell door and listens, its head turning from side to side. It looks back at you: “Chwenever huu need mee: shing my shong. Thank huu Chnight!“ ...

The Bat

... and it starts running with a strange waddle up the stairs and through the doors and 

you hear guards shouting and screams of fear as it spreads its wings and

takes flight and from the top of the stairs you see it circling

once over the castle in a last farewell 

and then it disappears into 

the greying 

dawn.

Sceptremass VI - The Seconds

Afternoon of the 2nd Kinsday of Petals - The Chambers of the Company

Referee

The fire in the hearth has burned down and candles provide the illumination in your room that the light from the overcast sky fail to do. There is a platter of dried and salted fish on the table and a carafe of wine. 

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Perilake takes the carafe and pours a cup for each of them. He stares into the liquid for a moment, then raises his gaze to his brothers. "More blood, then. More darkness between Kranach and Karpat." He sighs "I suppose we should have known that Iron would not bend... that they would never release the Snare Knight from their trap." He takes a long drink from his cup. "And the beast... We sit in the realms greatest court, and yet I cannot say we have found justice"

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz drinks, and nibbles thoughtfully at some fish. "Could it be wrong that we were wrong about the Bat? Perhaps we misunderstood the Seers, or... ugh." He rubs his temples. "Gundhilde, I think the armor is clean. Sit, eat if you want. It may be your last day as my squire."

Referee

Gundhilde puts away the rag. ”As you wish my lord.” She walks over to the table but refuses to take a seat. ”Do you think Lady Bianca is innocent? If she is not … well her fate is already decided and you will clearly win." She pauses for a second and adds quietly, "I'd reckon you would win if only mastery decided the outcome.”

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

"She is guilty of breaking her vow. But so is Dagmar, however long ago, for however noble her cause." Perilake bangs a hand on the table, but with more resignation than force. "And the secret is now out. Dagmars actions hold no power beyond opinion, and what she was scared of has come to pass. Yet the route taken demands answering still. What a waste." He looks at Anastasz and Gunhilde. "The Iron Knight is fierce, yet Salt will turn such strength to rust. The victor is sure on both measures by my reckoning. This battle will spare the King, and it may douse the sparks of mutiny in Karpat, or at least the fire of those would label them as such. But it will only fuel the emnity between the houses... Those sworn to vengeance will see only more to avenge. Another betrayal."

The quiet before the storm

Heldris The Dove Knight

Heldris sits broodingly on a stool, holding tightly on the cup of wine that Perilake has handed him. “Yes, more hate, more resentment, more confusion on this day before Sceptermass. When knights and lords should renew their vows of loyalty,” he sighs, “I feel my faith in the realm withering today.” He shows a forced smile. “Perhaps you're right, Anastaz, the Creature might be guilty for all we know. It’s just… if even a shadow of a doubt… but the court seemed so eager of blood… as with this trial by combat. I have no doubt the Salt Knight will prevail, but there must be a better way, a better example for the lords before Sceptermass.”

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

"But what can we do? The King has made his final judgement. The beast is no knight, there can be no trial by combat. Who would even be the combatants?" Perilake downs his wine, and pours another.

Anastaz The Salt Knight

The Salt Knight furrows his brow. "I do not like to imagine an innocent creature being killed. But what is the alternative? The King demands it, and it is not our right to question him. Justice is not always easy."

Referee

When there is a knock on the door Gundhilde opens it to reveal the Sheriff and a servant standing in the corridor. The servant who is holding writing implements follows Lady Margaret into the room and places them on the table. "Some formalities, I'm afraid. Salt Knight, you need to declare your second. You need to nominate who will inherit your title and possessions in case of death. You will also have to sign that you relief your family from invoking a feud. Lady Bianca has done the same. She has promoted Sir Ulrich to be her second.” She hands you the quill.

Heldris The Dove Knight

Heldris begrudgingly agrees that there is nothing to be done. But just as he starts to reply about protecting the innocents, he’s interrupted by a knock on the door. The morbid formalities brought by the Sheriff cast him back to his sombre mood.

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz strokes his chin for a moment. "I think to make Zoltan my second, and my successor." He glances at Perilake. "By your leave, Sir?"

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Perilake puts his cup down slowly, and stares for a moment at Anastasz. "I cannot speak on my squires behalf in this. But you.... you have my trust. I will not forbid it." His voice lowers to a whisper as he stares into Anastasz's eyes. "Though I question why you would do this, I trust you." He stands. "I will ask Zoltan. If he declines, I will be your second. If it pleases you."

Anastaz The Salt Knight

"It would."

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Perilake leans close across the table, his hands gripping the cup with white knuckles. "If you mean to place the boy in a fight to the death with the Iron Knight or his father, then my judgement is more tarnished than I imagined possible." He speaks softly and low before standing. He nods at the Sheriff and speaks clearly. "I will let you know the outcome of our conversation by dawn. If Zoltan will not act as second, then I will." The lustre of the Gilded Knight seems far faded, his words falling like lead into the melancholy silence of the room as he departs in search of his squire.

Referee

You find young Zoltan in the stable. He is talking to Blackwyn in a low voice while he his combing down the steed. “ … and then he offered me The Crane, can you imagine?” Blackwyn whickers as you approach and Zoltan turns around, drops the brush and steps back blushing.”My lord, I ...”

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

"What, Zoltan? Speak clearly. I have been long patient with your words, but that patience was broken alongside your word to me in the Karpat tent. Even a failed murderer is a man, not a boy who mumbl-" Perilake's anger boils forth, before he bites his tongue with a hiss. He composes himself. "I regret those words. Whatever my disappointment, I would not be cruel to you. But I would ask you still to speak clearly to me, to tell me - honest and true." He sits on a bale of hay, and stares at his squire. "The trial of combat requires the knights to choose seconds. Lady Bianca has named your father, and he has accepted. Sir Anastasz... I do not know why. But Sir Anastasz has chosen you. I am here to ask if you will accept - but first... first I must ask that you listen to me." He leans forward and pulls Zoltan's hands towards him, bringing the boy sitting alongside him on the hay. "You have heard the Snare Knight's words now, heard the truth of that bloody day. Her secret is known to all of the court; she cannot be blackmailed, but even those sympathetic to her motivations will no longer trust her." "And you have seen what vengeance is to bring the Iron Knight - and to your house, to the realm. For the difference between exile and death is only whether the grievances will be borne publicly or privately. The only one who might change that is Dagmar, who may forgive Bianca her crimes. Yet the Snare Knight is captured in the noose of damnation, and her only support is her house. Without others, she would merely declare herself prey forever." "So tell me, as my sworn squire, if you are that still. What is it you want to say to me?"

Referee

Zoltan starts mumbling before cursing under his breath and falling silent again. He balls his fists and starts speaking, slowly pressing every word between gritted teeth. "My lord … What I did in the tent … I have broken my promise and I am unworthy to … " He slips from the hay bale and gets on one knee. "I served Sir Johann well and he was a good teacher but when you fought him at the tournament I prayed to the Lake and the Shrouded Isle that you would win, the Knight in the Golden Armour. I dreamt of visiting Seers and follow their guidance and protecting the Realm. I dreamt of slaying mystical beasts and mundane vagabonds. And it all came true: I heard the Entombed Seer speak! I was there when the Eye sprouted from the ground! We rid the Realm of the Bandits and slew the Wolfspider in its lair." He looks up at you pleadingly. "Please my lord, I will never let you down again, I swear, but don't send me back to Kranach!"

Referee

Heldris, you make your way once again to the old Game Hall. The smell of dust and old wood familiar and even comforting. When you close the wooden door and light your candle it is dark and very quiet. At the shaft you crouch down and hear the same humming as before but softer and you imagine the creature hiding within its broken wings.  

Heldris The Dove Knight

Under the dim light of the half-consumed candle, Heldris crouches near the trapdoor. “Im sorry, I've failed to keep my promise. My words weren't enough, I thought the King would listen to reason. But what else can be done? My faith is withering.” He sighs, “I wish the Sunlite Seer were here to guide me.”

Referee

The Bat falls silent for a while and then it croaks louder than before as if peaking out through its wings: "Huu came for mee? All alone I chwait but huu came! Thank huu Chnight. Huu gave mee chhope chwhen I was all alone. Thank huu ...” And then it starts humming softly again, wrapped in its wings, alone in the dark.

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Perilake looks up, his face heavy. "But you dream still of revenge, true? Against a woman who made the mistake of believing she could save lives during a war." He stands. "I suppose at least one dream will not come true, though as with Dagmar, blood will be spilled no matter the intent." "I will not send you back to Kranach. You will remain my squire. I will hope.... I will hope that you are flawed, not false. That you will live up to my expectations, foolish as they may be." The Gilded Knight speaks low as he unknowingly echoes the words of his squire and the Salt Knight. "I will hope that you will show the realm the strength of a true knight. To put the balance of honour and duty to all above the fires of your heart." He sighs heavily, his voice dropping to a whisper. "And I will hope that there is some way tomorrow does not see death, though I see no means within my power." He shakes his head. "Enough of this. I have spoken long enough. Tell Sir Anastasz if you will accept the position as second; tell him you have my blessing in either decision. I am weary, and I will see you in the morrow."

Referee

Zoltan reaches out to kiss your hand but he catches himselft and bows, the outreached hand performing a flowery gesture instead. "I thank you my lord and I accept the Salt Knight's request ... " Zoltan can't suppress a beaming smile which disappears quickly when he remembers Anastaz wish." ... but with a heavy heart." Behind him you see Sir Ulrich passing the stables. He is leaving the castle in the direction of the hedge. He is deep in thought and hasn't seen neither you nor his own son. When you catch up with him he has reached the oak grove above the circle of stones, sitting between the trees. He looks up at you. "So you have heard about the Iron Knights decision? I will second her at dawn."

The Oak Grove

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

"I have, my lord. I still pray there is some way to avoid this, for my own foolishness. " Perilake takes a seat opposite and takes the measure of the man. "I am glad we have finally met. I would tell you that your son... your son has the makings of a fine Knight. Brave, fierce, strong. Loyal." He stares at the older man. " I would ask you my lord; you gave up your seat in the name of peace. Yet you passed to your son a duty of vengeance.... Why?"

Referee

"I gave up my seat …in the name of peace?" He laughs bitterly. "Yes of course! As to why I told Zoltan: He would have heard it anyway and better he hears it from me than on the courtyard from a fellow squire who loves to gossip. Vengeance is for the brave and for the foolish," he touches the silk of his fine tunic, "… and I am neither. I hope you are right about my son."

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

"If not for peace, then....?" Perilake shakes his head. "Your son is but a boy still. But I have hope it is bravery and not foolishness that he will rise to. Even if the realm cannot." Perilake leans forward. "Your son is to second the Salt Knight in his defence of Lady Dagmars honour."

Referee

Sir Ulrich stares at you incredulously before exclaiming: “What? … Why would Sir Anastaz …?” He shakes his head and mumbles angrily under his breath. “Maybe Lady Bianca is right about the Salt Knight ...” He gets up and shakes out his tunic.”I guess it's too late now. I need to speak to Zoltan about the Iron Knight's requests concerning the duel.”

Heldris The Dove Knight

Panic-stricken, Heldris flees from the voice of the innocent creature. Tears blurring his vision, he takes the route to the other end of the secret tunnel. He stumbles in the dark until he can feel the heavy slab on the tunnel ceiling. But instead of the dusty light of the old auditorium, his eyes are met by the dim daylight surrounding the old menhir and the stone circle where the Feast of the Stars had taken place. He look up at the sky behind the old stones, clearing his vision with the sleeve of his shirt.

Referee

The sky is overcast and the sun a mere suggestion beyond the banks of clouds. Between the oak trees on the hill you see Sir Ulrich and The Gilded Knight arguing. A thin branch above them sways slightly as a dove takes flight. It gains height and glides overhead as suddenly a single ray of sunlight bathes you in golden warmth. A moment later the dove and the light are gone and the world is grey again. But the warmth remains.

Sceptremass V - The Trial of The Iron Knight

 Afternoon of the 2nd Kinsday of Petals - The Great Hall

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz looks down and begins to massage his temples when the guilty verdict is announced. When the King says his name, he slowly looks up at the expectant crowd and stands. "Forgive me if I lack Sir Heldris' eloquence." He searches the crowd for the Iron Knight.

Referee

The Iron Knight stands up from Kranach's table and straightens her white uniform. She smiles confidently at you.

Anastaz The Salt Knight

"Lady Bianca of Altenburg, Sheriff of Kranach, you stand accused of blackmailing Lady Dagmar, Marshal of Karpat, a fellow Knight, servant of the King, and defender of the Realm. Do you deny these charges?

Referee

The Iron Knight takes a step closer to the guards that stand between the throne and the attending nobles. She is very beautiful. "The Snare Knight has paid me for keeping a secret that should have been revealed earlier." She has faced the nobles but turns now and addresses Lady Dagmar directly who is still shielded by the Karpat Envoy Adalgunde. "Keeping it a secret is a mistake I regret deeply. You call it blackmail. I call it an oversight that I am willing to rectify by sharing her despicable betrayal with her fellow Knights." 

 Lady Bianca, The Iron Knight

Anastaz The Salt Knight

"A secret that should have been revealed earlier'... If Lady Dagmar betrayed His Grace, concealing that fact would be treason. If she did not, you have merely forsaken your vows. Which is it?"

Referee

"We all remember the war." She looks down with a pained expression. There are subdued murmurs of approval from the crowd. "Much has happened since. Back then I was a young Kranach soldier fighting invaders from Svenrik. Karpat were our allies. The betrayal of Lady Dagmar was that of her allies not of the King." The murmurs grow louder. "I have not forsaken my vows and the traitor sits over there."  

 Anastaz The Salt Knight

"It was war, my Lady. Allegiances change. We have many lords and ladies of Szalai in this chamber, did they betray you when they took up His Grace's standard? And what of Kranach, who ultimately bent the knee as well? And if you had fought until the bitter end, you would not be standing here today."  

Referee

"If we had fought freely without being stabbed in the back by this snake we might have won." She hisses angrily taking a step closer to Lady Dagmar.

Anastaz The Salt Knight

"No one is forcing you to swear allegiance to His Grace, Lady Bianca, nor to stay in His realm. You could always forswear your titles and flee to Masuria."

Referee

"Flee?" She spits. "Why leave? There was a time when all of this ..." She bites her lips but the damage is done. There are angry shouts from the Knights and you see her trembling from anger. Sir Dragan approaches her and lays a hand on her shoulder but she angrily shrugs him off. "Who do you think you are?", she screams at you. "A stranger who doesn't know our history. An era when we lived in peace before the invaders came. A Realm prosperous and ruled justly by … " Dragan has now gotten hold of her and drags her back. More shouts from the crowd. Sir Vladimir tries to call for order but no end. Lady Bianca slums on her chair while Lady Zdenka is trying to talk sense into her. Sir Dragan is approaching the King to limit the damage that is done.  

Anastaz The Salt Knight

"At last we see the real betrayal, a treason hiding in the Iron Knight's heart, fomenting disloyalty against His Grace. Yet even as she resents Masur's loss, she uses it for her own gain. How would your fallen comrades feel, knowing you profit from their demise?"

Referee

You need to shout your words over the commotion that Lady Bianca's words have caused. "Unworthy to be a Knight!" somebody calls and "Take her title away" another. Finally the clamour dies down and the King declares: "As the advisor of the accused, Sir Dragan is allowed to speak on the Iron Knight's behalf." Sir Dragan positions himself next to you, wipes his face with a silken handkerchief and waits until it is completely silent. "Lady Bianca has fought at the Battle of the Red Reeds where hundreds were slain. She was among the few who survived. I pray nobody among the young Knights ..." he glances around before looking straight at the Salt Knight " … has to suffer her fate and I beg for forgiveness in her name." He turns around and points at the Snare Knight. “I summon the Marshall of the Fortress, Lady Dagmar of Karpat before the King to give witness."

Referee

The Snare Knight gets up with great difficulty and grips the back of her chair to steady herself. She is very pale and sways slightly. "I have only one question.” Dragan says gently."Do you admit betraying the position of Karpat's troops that caused the death of so many fine soldiers?” And in the shocked silence she answers in a trembling voice. "Yes and I regret it every day.” Dragan turns to you with a smile. “Your witness, Salt Knight!”

Ser Perilake The Gilded Knight

Perilake's eyes stray back towards his squire. Will Zoltan hold his tongue, or will he shame himself further? Somewhere inside, the gilded knight still holds the faint hope that the boy may show wisdom, that if he speaks then he will lend his voice to forgiveness and conciliation. But that hope flickers but dimly now, lost in the shame of the attack. It is kept alive only by the presence of Lady Inga.

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz sighs. "Lady Dagmar, why did you betray the position of Karpat's troops?"

Referee

She is slurring her words and her eyes are red and swollen. “It was the end of the war. We had lost and everybody knew it. To send the men and women to their death would have been .. But the rulers in their holding were proud and didn't see what was obvious. I was promised that our soldiers and the soldiers of Kranach would be surrounded and given the opportunity to yield. The war would have ended without any more bloodshed!”

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz crosses to Lady Dagmar and takes her hand in his to comfort her. "And then what happened?"

Referee

"The mercenaries from Svenrik attacked without warning. We were overrun. They killed Sir Zigmunt. They spared no one." Tears are running down her face. It is utterly silent in the Great Hall.

Anastaz The Salt Knight

"How did the Iron Knight first approach you, my Lady?"

Referee

"A delegation from Kranach visited us last year. As you may know Lady Zdenka is married to the uncle of my liege. Bianca told me she would reveal what I have done unless I would pay her from the Karpatian coffers. I was afraid my family … “ Her voice breaks” I was afraid of the shame .. I was weak … I should have stood up to her ...”   

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz slowly shakes his head. He looks up at the assembled masses. "Many secrets have been revealed today. Lady Dagmar gave away secrets assured that her sacrifice would protect the people of the realm, but the mercenaries from Svenrik did not honor this deal. Lady Bianca discovered the Snare Knight's secret and manipulated it to her own profit: disturbing the peace of the realm, threatening the status of house Karpat, and desecrating the memory of house Kranach's fallen warriors. For her disloyalty to the King and her treachery towards a fellow Knight, I declare Lady Bianca devoid of honor and ask that she be stripped of her titles, as it please Your Grace. May the Seers have mercy on all of us." Anastaz takes a seat, exhausted.

King Andrasz of Barow

Referee

Zoltan is leaning against the balustrade with his back to the trial. His head is buried in his arms and his shoulders are twitching.  

Down in the Great Hall you could hear a needle drop. All eyes rest on the King who absent mindedly massages his right hand. Next to him Sir Ulrich has put his face in his hands in a reflection of his son's posture. Sir Dragan has taken a seat next to Zdenka who has placed a hand on Bianca's shoulder. After a while the King calls Dragan and Anastaz to him. “Dragan, the Iron Knight is guilty of breaking her vow. She will be stripped off her titles. If she finds a place in the sanctuary of a Seer we might in time call her back into service.” Dragan harrumphs and shakes his head. In an undertone he says:” My Grace, Lady Zdenka has promised the rulers of Altenburg that she would not abandon one of our own. There will be severe diplomatic consequences. I urge you to rethink your verdict.” The King narrows his eyes at Dragan's words and looks over to you.  

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz speaks loudly. "I am more than willing to put it to a trial by combat. Surely Altenburg cannot dispute the verdict if even fate finds her guilty."

Referee

Sir Dragan inclines his head with a smile as if he had expected your suggestion: “That would be agreeable.” The King however hesitates and studies your face with a worried look. “A trial by combat is not a tournament fight, Salt Knight. It is fought to the death. Are you sure you want to put your life on the line for Lady Dagmar?”

Anastaz The Salt Knight

Anastaz nods slightly. "I know Lady Dagmar's cause to be just. And when I make a vow, I keep it."

Referee

Andrasz walks past all the Council members and the delegates from the house who had risen and stand in line. He addresses the Great Hall. ” Tomorrow the Realm comes together once again to renew the bond we share. It pains me that the matters discussed throw a shadow over the unity of the Realm. Lady Bianca of Altenburg has been accused of having broken her vow and I have asked Sir Anastaz The Salt Knight who brought the case to my attention to prosecute her. Due to the gravity of the accusations it has been decided that a trial by combat will determine who fate will favour. They will meet at dawn among the Hedge and the blood of the one destined to die will consecrate the stones.” With this the trial of the Iron Knight ends and Knights and Courtiers slowly file out of the Great Hall lively discussing the events of the day.